WOMEN Ort,THE itkBLE
AID TO MORE EFFICIENT SABBATH SCHOOLS
rimary 5rectittre
An attractive paper containing the Sabbath school lesson and stories for chil-
dren up to ten years of age.
* * *
THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY
"The beauty and riches of the word have a transforming influence on mind
and character."—Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 132.
"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study
of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give
vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God's
word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a
nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these times."—
Steps to Christ,
page go.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I
pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sab-
bath school lesson each day of the week.
Name
LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER
t. Eve, "The Mother of All Living"
2.
Sarah and Hagar
3.
Rebekah, Wife From a Far Country
4.
Rachel and Leah
5.
Miriam the Prophetess
6.
Rahab; Deborah
7.
Ruth the Moabitess
8.
Hannah; Rizpah
9.
"That Woman Jezebel"
to. Esther, the Persian Queen
t. Mary, the Mother of Jesus
12.
Martha and Mary
13.
Women of the Early Church
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 269, July-September, 1962. 20 cents a single copy, 75 cents a
year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A.
by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View,
California. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. When a change of
address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses.
Copyright, 1962, by Pacific Press Publishing Association
Printed in U.S.A.
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly
WOMEN OF THE BIBLE
General Introduction
"Woman should fill the position which
God originally designed for her, as her
husband's equal. The world needs moth-
ers who are mothers not merely in name
but in every sense of the word. We may
safely say that the distinctive duties of
woman are more sacred, more holy, than
those of man. Let woman realize the
sacredness of her work and in the strength
and fear of God take up her life mission.
Let her educate her children for usefulness
in this world and for a home in the better
world. . . .
"The king upon his throne has no higher
work than has the mother. The mother is
queen of her household. She has
in
her
power the molding of her children's char-
acters, that they may be fitted for the
higher, immortal life. An angel could not
ask for a higher mission; for in doing this
work she is doing service for God. Let her
only realize the high character of her task,
and it will inspire her with courage. Let
her realize the worth of her work and put
on the whole armor of God, that she may
resist the temptation to conform to the
world's standard. Her work is for time and
for eternity."—The
Adventist Home,
pages
231,
232. Here is good counsel for every
mother today.
Lesson 1, for July 7, 1962
Eve, "The Mother of All Living"
MEMORY VERSE:
"And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be
alone;
I
will make him an help meet for him." Gen.
2:18.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 44-62 (chapters 2, 3); "S.D.A. Bi-
ble Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday: Questions 1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-7.
Tuesday: Questions 8-11.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 12-14; begin
reading Study Helps.
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Helps.
a
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1
III. The Temptation and Fall
7.
The single restriction. Gen.
2:16, 17.
8.
The voice of the tempter. Gen. 3:1.
9.
Talking with the serpent. Gen.
3:2-6.
22.
10. The tragic results. Gen. 3:7.
11. Self-justification. Gen. 3:12, 13.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Creation of Eve
1.
A helpmate. Gen. 2:18-20.
2.
Created from a rib. Gen. 2:21,
II. The First Marriage and the Ideal
Home
3.
Words of welcome. Gen. 2:23.
4.
The bonds of love. Eph. 5:28.
5.
The sacredness of marriage. Matt.
19:3-6.
6.
The Eden home. Gen. 2:15.
IV. The First Prophecy of Scripture
12.
A ray of hope. Gen. 3:15.
13.
The lot of Eve. Gen. 3:16.
14.
Eve's children-her hope of
promise fulfilled. Gen. 4:1, 2;
5:3,
4.
THE LESSON
"Man was not made to dwell in solitude;
he was to be a social being. Without com-
panionship the beautiful scenes and de-
lightful employments of Eden would have
failed to yield perfect happiness. Even
communion with angels could not have
satisfied his desire for sympathy and com-
panionship. There was none of the same
nature to love and to be
loved."-Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 46.
2.
What did the Creator then pro-
ceed to do? Gen. 2:21, 22.
Introduction
"As Adam came forth from the hand of
his Creator, he was of noble height, and of
beautiful symmetry. He was more than
twice as tall as men now living upon the
earth and was well proportioned. His
features were perfect and beautiful. His
complexion was neither white, nor sallow,
but ruddy, glowing with the rich tint of
health. Eve was not quite as tall as Adam.
Her head reached a little above his shoul-
ders. She, too, was noble-perfect in sym-
metry, and very beautiful."-Spirit
of
Prophecy,
page 25 (1870 ed.).
"Our first parents, though created in-
nocent and holy, were not placed beyond
the possibility of wrongdoing. God made
them free moral agents, capable of appreci-
ating the wisdom and benevolence of His
character and the justice of His require-
ments, and with full liberty to yield or to
withhold obedience. They were to enjoy
communion with God and with holy an-
gels; but before they could be rendered
eternally secure, their loyalty must be
tested."-Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 48.
The Creation of Eve
1. After God had created every-
thing else, what did He say was still
needful for man? Gen. 2:18-20.
NOTE.-A "help meet for him," or a help-
mate; that is, someone fit or suitable; a
counterpart or companion. Each was to
he suited to the other's needs.
NoTE.-Skeptics may ridicule this story,
yet it is simple, beautiful, and full of mean-
ing. "Eve was created from a rib taken
from the side of Adam, signifying that
she was not to control him as the head, nor
to be trampled under his feet as an in-
ferior, but to stand by his side as an equal,
to be loved and protected by him. A part
of man, bone of his bone, and flesh of his
flesh, she was his second self, showing the
close union and the affectionate attachment
that should exist in this
relation."-Patri-
archs and Prophets,
page 46.
The First Marriage and the
Ideal Home
3.
What did Adam say when God
presented his companion to him?
Gen.
2:23.
[
4
1
NOTE.—"In joyful astonishment, his
[Adam's] eye now rested with the intense
thrill of first love. Instinctively, or, as the
result of divine instruction, he recognized
in her part of his own being. He was
henceforth to love her as his own body,
for in loving her he loves himself."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Gen. 2:23.
4.
In what words does Paul indi-
cate this close marital relationship?
Eph. 5:28.
5.
How did Christ stress the sacred-
ness of the marriage covenant? Matt.
19:3-6.
NOTE.—"These words express the deep-
est physical and spiritual unity of man and
woman, and hold up monogamy before the
world as the form of marriage ordained
by God."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on
Gen. 2:24.
6.
What ideal home was provided
for our first parents? Gen. 2:15.
NOTE.—"Everything that God had made
was the perfection of beauty, and nothing
seemed wanting that could contribute to the
happiness of the holy pair; yet the Creator
gave them still another token of His love,
by preparing a garden especially for their
home. In this garden were trees of every
variety, many of them laden with fragrant
and delicious fruit. . . . It was the work
of Adam and Eve to train the branches of
the vine to form bowers, thus making for
themselves a dwelling from living trees
covered with foliage and fruit. There were
fragrant flowers of every hue in rich pro-
fusion."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages
46, 47.
The Temptation and Fall
7.
What single restriction was
placed upon the dwellers in Eden?
Gen. 2:16, 17.
NOTE.—"Our first parents were not left
without a warning of the danger that
threatened them. Heavenly messengers
opened to them the history of Satan's fall
and his plots for their destruction."—Patri-
archs
and Prophets,
page 52.
8.
On one occasion, what voice did
Eve hear? Gen. 3:1.
NoTE.—The expression, "Yea, hath God
said?" was a subtle and malicious insinua-
tion of doubt.
9.
After conversing with the ser-
pent, how did Eve regard the tree,
and what did she do? Gen. 3:2-6.
NoTE.—In this brief contact with Eve,
Satan, the "accuser of the brethren,"
charged God with falsehood, envy, and a
lack of love and wisdom. The expression
translated, "Ye shall be as gods," may be
rendered correctly, "Ye shall be as God."
This reveals the blasphemous nature of Sa-
tan's charge and the appalling nature of
his deception.
The appearance of the tree fascinated
Eve. It appealed to her taste, to her eye,
and to her desire for wisdom. In part, the
temptation of Eve was similar to that
which Christ faced in the wilderness; but
where she failed, He overcame.
10.
As a result of disobedience,
what immediately occurred? Gen. 3:7.
NoTE.—"The love and peace which had
been theirs was gone, and in its place they
felt a sense of sin, a dread of the future, a
nakedness of soul. The robe of light which
had enshrouded them, now disappeared,
and to supply its place they endeavored to
fashion for themselves a covering; for they
could not, while unclothed, meet the eye
of God and holy
angels."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 57.
11.
What reply did Adam give,
then Eve, when questioned by God?
Gen. 3:12, 13.
5
NorE.—"When the Lord inquired con-
cerning their sin, Adam replied, laying the
guilt partly upon God and partly upon his
companion. . . . The woman put the blame
upon the serpent. . . . Why did You make
the serpent? Why did You suffer him to
come into Eden? These were the questions
implied in her excuse for her sin, thus
charging God with the responsibility of
their fall. The spirit of self-justification
originated in the father of lies, and has
been exhibited by all the sons and daugh-
ters of Adam. Confessions of this order
are not inspired by the divine Spirit, and
will not be acceptable to God. True re-
pentance will lead a man to bear his guilt
himself, and acknowledge it without de-
ception or hypocrisy."—Steps
to Christ,
page 40.
The First Prophecy of Scripture
12.
Before passing sentence upon
the man and woman, what words did
God speak to the serpent that gave
hope and promise to Eve and her hus-
band? Gen. 3:15.
NoTE.—From that day to this there has
been conflict between Satan and his fol-
lowers, and Christ and His people. Fiercely
and without interruption the conflict has
raged; but on Calvary's cross our Saviour
triumphed. Satan's death knell was sounded,
and, according to this prophecy, he will at
length be destroyed.
13.
Because of her sin, what was
imposed upon Eve? Gen.
3 : 16.
NOTE.—"Eve had been perfectly happy
by her husband's side in her Eden home;
but, like restless modern Eves, she was
flattered with the hope of entering a higher
sphere than that which God had assigned
her. In attempting to rise above her orig-
inal position, she fell far below it. A
similar result will be reached by all who are
unwilling to take up cheerfully their life
duties in accordance with God's plan. . . .
In their desire for a higher sphere, many
have sacrificed true womanly dignity and
nobility of character."—Patriarchs
and
Prophets,
page 59.
14.
Following the expulsion from
Eden, what is recorded of Eve? Gen.
4:1, 2; 5:3, 4.
NOTE.—"I
have gotten a man from the
Lord.
The Hebrew reads literally, 'I have
gotten a man, the Lord.' When
Eve held
her first-born in her arms she apparently
remembered the divine promise of ch. 3:15,
and entertaining the hope that he was to
be the promised Deliverer, named him
Qayin,
'gotten' (DA 31). Forlorn hope!
Her eager longing for the speedy fulfillment
of the gospel promise was doomed to meet
the most heartbreaking disappointment.
Little did she realize that this very child
would become the world's first murderer."
—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on Gen. 4:1.
Aside from these brief references, noth-
ing is known concerning the life of the
mother of our race after her expulsion from
Eden, but we can learn from her tragic
mistakes.
"To Eve it seemed a small thing to dis-
obey God by tasting the fruit of the for-
bidden tree, and to tempt her husband also
to transgress; but their sin opened the
floodgates of woe upon the world. Who can
know, in the moment of temptation, the
terrible consequences that will result from
one wrong step
?"—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
page 61.
Thoughts for Meditation
Any raiment of my own righteousness
will afford me no protection. Only the
garment of Christ's righteousness, woven
in the loom of heaven, will suffice in that
day when I stand before the great Judge.
"The Sabbath school is a mis-
sionary field, and very much
more of the missionary spirit
should be manifested in this
important
work."—Counsels
on Sabbath School Work,
page 10.
[ 6 ]
Lesson 2, for July 14, 1962
Sarah and Hagar
MEMORY VERSE:
"Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive
seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she
judged Him faithful who had promised." Heb. 11:11.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 130, 138, 145-147, 370-373;
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon:
General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday:
Questions 1-3.
Monday:
Questions 4-6.
Check Here
Tuesday: Questions 7.10.
Wednesday: Questions 11-14.
Thursday: Read Study Helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. From Ur of the Chaldees
1.
To Haran in Mesopotamia. Gen.
11:26-32.
2.
Onward to Canaan. Gen. 12:4, 5.
3.
The inspiring promise. Gen.
12:1-3 ; Heb. 11:8.
II. In Canaan and Egypt
4.
Famine in the land. Gen. 12:10.
5.
Disguising the truth. Gen. 12:11-13.
6.
Perilous results. Gen. 12:14-20.
III. Sarah and Her Maid
7.
A human proposal. Gen. 15:2, 3.
8.
Another subterfuge. Gen. 16:1, 2.
9.
Discord in the home. Gen. 16:5, 6.
10.
Hagar in the wilderness. Gen. 16:
7-13.
IV. The Promise and Fulfillment
11.
The covenant reaffirmed. Gen. 17:
15-17, 19.
12.
The gift of the promised son. Gen.
21:1, 6, 7.
13.
Hagar and Ishmael banished. Gen.
21:8-14.
V. The Two Covenants
14. An allegory. Gal. 4:22-31.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Because of their corruption and violence
multitudes of the depraved antediluvians
perished in the great Flood. But people for-
get so soon; and many years later, when
Abraham and Sarah lived in Ur of the Chal-
dees, the society was definitely pagan.
Idolatry and polygamy were prevalent; yet
faith in God was not totally extinct, and
Abraham was chosen as "the inheritor of
this holy trust." To fulfill the divine pur-
pose he was called to forsake country and
kindred and to journey to a distant land.
Sarah, his faithful wife (1 Peter 3:5, 6),
accompanied him on this great adventure
for God.
From Ur of the Chaldees
1. From the land of their nativity,
to what place did Abraham, Sarah,
and their company journey? Gen. 11:
26-32.
[7]
NOTE.—This was a pilgrimage of some
800 miles. Here in Haran they remained
for some years, during which time their
riches, flocks, and herds greatly increased.
Also, "during their stay in Haran, both
Abraham and Sarah had led others to the
worship and service of the true God. These
attached themselves to the patriarch's
household, and accompanied him to the
land of
promise."—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
page 127.
2.
After the death of Terah, what
was Abraham bidden to do? Gen. 12:
4, 5.
Nora.—"From his father's grave the
divine Voice bade him [Abraham] go for-
ward. His brother Nahor with his house-
hold clung to their home and their idols.
Besides Sarah, the wife of Abraham, only
Lot, the son of Haran long since dead,
chose to share the patriarch's pilgrim life.
Yet it was a large company that set out
from Mesopotamia. Abraham already pos-
sessed extensive flocks and herds, the
riches of the East, and he was surrounded
by a numerous body of servants and re-
tainers. He was departing from the land
of his fathers, never to return, and he
took with him all that he had, 'their sub-
stance that they had gathered, and the
souls that they had gotten in Haran.'
"—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 127.
3.
What divine promises inspired
them to continue on this hazardous
journey? Gen. 12:1-3; Heb. 11:8.
In Canaan and Egypt
4.
After the family reached Canaan
what scourge came upon the land,
and what did the family do? Gen.
12:10.
5.
On entering Egypt what misgiv-
ings troubled Abraham and Sarah,
and how did they reveal distrust in
God's keeping power? Gen. 12:11-13.
NOTE.—"During his stay in Egypt, Abra-
ham gave evidence that he was not free
from human weakness and imperfection.
In concealing the fact that Sarah was his
wife, he betrayed a distrust of the divine
care, a lack of that lofty faith and courage
so often and nobly exemplified in his life.
. . . He reasoned that he was not guilty of
falsehood in representing Sarah as his sis-
ter, for she was the daughter of his father,
though not of his mother. But this con-
cealment of the real relation between them
was deception. No deviation from strict
integrity can meet God's
approval."--Pa-
triarchs and Prophets,
page 130.
6.
What dire results followed this
evasion of the real truth? Gen. 12:
14-20.
NoTE.—"Through Abraham's lack of
faith, Sarah was placed in great peril. The
king of Egypt, being informed of her
beauty, caused her to be taken to his palace,
intending to make her his wife. But the
Lord, in His great mercy, protected Sarah
by sending judgments upon the royal house-
hold. By this means the monarch learned
the truth in the matter, and, indignant at
the deception practiced upon him, he re-
proved Abraham and restored to him his
wife."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 130.
In humiliation they were expelled from
the country.
Sarah and Her Maid
7.
As time passed and Sarah had
no son, to what distrust of the divine
promise did Abraham give expres-
sion? Gen. 15:2, 3.
NOTE.—It was proposed that their trusted
servant Eliezer should be adopted as son
and heir. But God gave the assurance
that the heir would be Abraham's
own son.
8.
After a further period of wait-
ing, what plan did Sarah recommend?
Gen. 16:1, 2.
[
8
]
NoTE.—"Thinking it impossible that a
child should be given her in her old age,
Sarah suggested, as a plan by which the
divine purpose might be fulfilled, that one
of her handmaidens should be taken by
Abraham as a secondary wife. Polygamy
had become so widespread that it had
ceased to be regarded as a sin, but it was
no less a violation of the law of God, and
was fatal to the sacredness and peace of
the family relation. Abraham's marriage
with Hagar resulted in evil, not only to his
own household, but to future generations."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 145.
9.
After Abraham's marriage to Ha-
gar, what troubles soon arose in the
home, and what did Hagar do? Gen.
16:5, 6.
10.
What experience came to Ha-
gar in the wilderness? Gen. 16:7-13.
NOTE.—"In the way to Shur." Hagar
had evidently traveled several days on the
way to her native Egypt (see Gen. 25:18; 1
Sam. 15:7) ; now she was to return and
submit meekly to her mistress. At the birth
of Ishmael, Abraham was eighty-six years
of age and Sarah was ten years younger.
During the next thirteen years they evi-
dently continued under the illusion that
Ishmael was the promised heir. See Gen.
17:1, 18.
The Promise and Fulfillment
11.
When Sarah was about ninety
years of age, what promise was re-
peated? Gen. 17:15-17, 19.
NOTE.—"In token of the fulfillment of
this covenant, his name, heretofore called
Abram, was changed to Abraham, which
signifies, 'father of a great multitude.'
Sarai's name became Sarah—`princess;' for,
said the divine Voice, 'she shall be a mother
of nations; kings of people shall be of
her.'
"—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 137,
138.
12.
At the birth of Isaac, what ex-
pression of joy came from the lips of
Sarah? Gen. 21:1, 6, 7.
13.
On the occasion when Isaac was
weaned, what incident disturbed the
peace of the family? with what re-
sult? Gen. 21:8-14.
NoTE.—Although Ishmael became an ex-
ile from his parental home, the promise of
God was nevertheless fulfilled (Gen. 16:10),
and his descendants, the Ishmaelites, were a
numerous people. Large numbers of Arabs
of today regard Ishmael as their great an-
cestor. As for Sarah, she lived until Isaac
was thirty-seven years of age, and was
buried in the cave of Machpelah. See Gen.
23:1, 19.
The Two Covenants
14.
In what way is the story of
Sarah, Hagar (or Agar), and their
sons employed to illustrate the two
covenants? Gal. 4:22-31.
NOTE.—Ishmael, son of the bondwoman,
was born "after the flesh." He came as the
result of human devisings and attempts to
fulfill the promise of God. He was a living
testimony to "works" without faith, a
symbol of the old covenant.
For nearly twenty-five years Sarah and
her husband had been anxious and ques-
tioning concerning the covenant promise ;
but at length faith triumphed; they be-
lieved God and He counted it to them for
righteousness. At last, when the fulfillment
appeared humanly impossible, there came
the miracle birth; and Isaac was pre-
eminently the son of faith and the gift
God. He was born of the freewoman, and
represented the new covenant.
Thoughts for Meditation
Am I living under the old covenant or the
new?
Have I "cast out the bondwoman and
her son"?
Do I run ahead of God's providences and
follow my own human devisings?
Sarah as well as Abraham led the mem-
bers of her household to the worship of
the living God. Do I do as well in my
home? See
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
144.
[9
1
Lesson 3, for July 21, 1962
Rebekah, Wife From a Far Country
MEMORY VERSE:
"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above
rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have
no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life."
Prov. 31:10-12.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 171-182; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday: Questions 1, 2; begin read-
ing Study Helps.
Monday: Questions 3-6.
Check Here
Tuesday: Questions 7-10.
Wednesday: Questions 11-14.
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Instructions to Eliezer
1.
Abraham's deep concern. Gen.
24:1-3.
2.
A pledge required. Gen. 24:4-9.
II. The Mission to Mesopotamia
3.
Eliezer's prayer. Gen. 24 : 10-14.
4.
The remarkable answer. Gen. 24:
15-21.
5.
Visit in Rebekah's home. Gen. 24:
22-56.
6.
"I will go." Gen. 24:57-60.
III. Home Life of Rebekah and Isaac
7.
The happy meeting. Gen. 24:62-67.
8.
The birth of twins. Gen. 25:20, 24.
9.
Unwise favoritism. Gen. 25:27, 28.
10.
Sadness to the parents. Gen. 26:34,
35; 27:46.
IV. Deception and Its Bitter Con-
sequences
11.
A divine forecast. Gen. 25:21-23.
12.
Isaac's determination. Gen. 27:1-4.
13.
A resort to stratagem. Gen. 27:6-10.
14.
The bitter harvest. Gen. 27:41-45.
THE LESSON
Introduction
The longest chapter in the book of Gen-
esis is devoted entirely and in minute detail
to the marriage of Isaac and Rebekah.
Here is a charming and beautiful story. In
the narrative of the bridal mission, the 450-
mile trip by camel caravan to Padan-aram,
the chivalrous reception accorded to Eli-
ezer, and the romantic meeting of the two
young people on the return, all present a
lively picture of Oriental manners and cus-
toms in that primitive patriarchal age.
"For the first time since the sinless loves
of Eden were blasted, it shows us wedlock
receiving a fresh consecration. . . . Within
the shelter of God's covenant love grows
pure again.. . . The wooing of Rebekah
and her betrothal to Isaac are the earliest
in a happy series of Bible passages devoted
to the elevation of the marriage bond."-
Butler,
The Bible Work, vol.
1, pp.
406, 407.
[ 10 ]
Instructions to Eliezer
1.
As Abraham was growing old,
what special burden rested upon his
heart? Gen. 24:1-3.
NOTE.—"The inhabitants of Canaan were
given to idolatry, and God had forbidden
intermarriage between His people and them,
knowing that such marriages would lead to
apostasy. . . In the mind of Abraham
the choice of a wife for his son was a mat-
ter of grave importance; he was anxious to
have him marry one who would not lead
him from
God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 171.
2.
What specific instructions were
given to Eliezer, and what oath or
pledge did Abraham require? Gen.
24:4-9.
NOTE.—"Abraham committed the im-
portant matter to 'his eldest servant,' a
man of piety, experience, and sound judg-
ment, who had rendered him long and faith-
ful
service."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
172.
"Isaac, trusting to his father's wisdom
and affection, was satisfied to commit the
matter to him, believing also that God
Himself would direct in the choice made."
—Ibid., p. 171.
The Mission to Mesopotamia
3.
As he was approaching the city
of Nahor, also known as Haran, what
prayer did Eliezer offer? Gen. 24:
10-14.
4.
In what remarkable way was
this prayer answered? Gen. 24:15-21.
NOTE.—"Hardly was the prayer uttered
before the answer was given. Among the
women who were gathered at the well, the
courteous manners of one attracted his at-
tention. As she came from the well, the
stranger went to meet her, asking for some
water from the pitcher upon her shoulder.
The request received a kindly answer, with
an offer to draw water for the camels also,
a service which it was customary even for
the daughters of princes to perform for
their fathers' flocks and herds. Thus the
desired sign was given. The maiden 'was
very fair to look upon,' and her ready
courtesy gave evidence of a kind heart and
an active, energetic nature. Thus far the
divine hand had been with him. After
acknowledging her kindness by rich gifts,
the messenger asked her parentage, and on
learning that she was the daughter of
Bethuel, Abraham's nephew, he 'bowed
down his head, and worshiped the Lord.' "
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 172, 173.
5.
Relate the various incidents in
the visit of Eliezer to the family of
Bethuel. Gen. 24:22-56.
6.
What was Rebekah's response to
the proposal of marriage, and what
parting blessing was given her? Gen.
24:57-60.
Home Life of Rebekah and Isaac
7.
Describe Rebekah's meeting with
Isaac. Gen. 24:62-67.
NOTE.—"The result of that marriage, as
presented in the Scriptures, is a tender and
beautiful picture of domestic happiness....
"What a contrast between the course of
Isaac and that pursued by the youth of our
time, even among professed Christians!
Young people too often feel that the be-
stowal of their affections is a matter in
which self alone should be consulted—a
matter that neither God nor their parents
should in any wise control. . . . Many have
thus wrecked their happiness in this life
and their hope of the life to come.
"If there is any subject which should be
carefully considered and in which the coun-
sel of older and more experienced persons
should be sought, it is the subject of mar-
riage ; if ever the Bible was needed as a
counselor, if ever divine guidance should
be sought in prayer, it is before taking a
step that binds persons together for life."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 175.
8.
After Rebekah and Isaac had
waited for twenty years, how were
their hopes for a family realized? Gen.
25:20, 24.
NoTE.—Like Abraham and Sarah, they
were to understand that children of prom-
ise are not simply born in the natural
order, but are in a special sense the gift of
God.
9.
How are the two sons described,
and what is said of the attitude of
their parents? Gen. 25:27, 28.
NoTE.—The unwise favoritism displayed
in this once happy home was most un-
fortunate. It brought division and enmity
between the brothers; and for many cen-
turies there was bitter hostility between
the Israelites and the posterity of Esau,
known as the Edomites.
10.
What acts on the part of Esau
brought grief and sadness to his par-
ents? Gen. 26:34, 35; 27:46.
NoTE.—"Those who would find true hap-
piness must have the blessing of Heaven
upon all that they possess and all that
they do. It is disobedience to God that
fills so many hearts and homes with misery.
My sister, unless you would have a home
where the shadows are never lifted, do not
unite yourself with one who is an enemy of
God."—The Adventist Home,
page 67.
Deception and Its Bitter
Consequences
11.
Prior to the birth of her two
sons, what had the Lord revealed to
Rebekah? Gen. 25:21-23.
12.
In spite of this divine forecast
concerning Jacob and Esau, what did
Isaac plan to do? Gen. 27:1-4.
NoTE.—"Years passed on, until Isaac, old
and blind, and expecting soon to die, de-
termined no longer to delay the bestowal
of the blessing upon his elder son. But
knowing the opposition of Rebekah and
Jacob, he decided to perform the solemn
ceremony in
secret."—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
page 179.
This blessing included the birthright
privileges as head of the family, priest of
the household, and inheritor of the fa-
ther's wealth.
13.
When Rebekah overheard
Isaac's secret conversation with Esau,
what did she instruct Jacob to do?
Gen. 27:6-10.
NOTE.—"Rebekah divined his purpose.
She was confident that it was contrary to
what God had revealed as His will. Isaac
was in danger of incurring the divine dis-
pleasure and of debarring his younger son
from the position to which God had called
him. She had in vain tried the effect of
reasoning with Isaac, and she determined
to resort to stratagem."—Patriarchs
and
Prophets,
page 180.
14.
Because of the deception prac-
ticed upon the aged Isaac, how was
the family chastened? Gen. 27:41-45.
NoTE.—"Rebekah bitterly repented the
wrong counsel she had given her son; it
was the means of separating him from her,
and she never saw his face again. From the
hour when he received the birthright, Jacob
was weighed down with self-condemna-
tion. He had sinned against his father, his
brother, his own soul, and against God. In
one short hour he had made work for a
lifelong repentance."—Patriarchs
and
Prophets,
page 180.
Isaac and Esau were also thwarted in
their plans and bitterly grieved. See Gen.
27:33-35.
[
127
Thoughts for Meditation
May Christians rightly assume that "the
end justifies the means," or that they may
do evil that good may come?
If Christian husbands or wives act in-
dependently, not sharing their secrets or
desires with each other, what grave perils
are in store?
"There is a sacred circle around every
family which should be preserved. No
other one has any right in that sacred cir-
cle. The husband and wife should be all
to each other. The wife should have no
secrets to keep from her husband and let
others know, and the husband should have
no secrets to keep from his wife to relate
to others."-The
Adventist Home,
page 177.
Would the courtesy and kindness of my
public conduct distinguish me in a group
of strangers, as did Rebekah's at the well
when unknowingly observed by Eliezer?
(Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 172.)
Lesson 4, for July 28, 1962
Rachel and Leah
MEMORY VERSE:
"And Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed
unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her." Gen. 29:20.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 188-190, 206; "S.D.A. Bible Com-
mentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check
Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Monday: Questions 5-9.
Tuesday: Questions 10-12.
Check Here
Wednesday: Questions 13, 14; be-
gin reading Study Helps.
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Jacob and Rachel Meet
1.
At the well near Haran. Gen.
29:1-6.
2.
The cousins meet. Gen. 29:9-12.
3.
Laban's cordial greeting. Gen. 29:
13-15.
4.
An agreement reached. Gen. 29:
16-19.
II. The Years in Padan-aram
5.
Seven years of happy toil. Gen.
29:20.
6.
A cruel deception. Gen. 29:21-23.
7.
A compromise reached. Gen. 29:
25-28.
8. Discord in the home life. Gen. 30:1.
9. Human mistakes overruled. Gen.
30:20, 21.
III. The Flight to Canaan
10. The sudden departure. Gen.
31:1-
7, 17-20.
11. Search for the stolen gods.
Gen. 31:26-35.
12. The household cleansed from idols.
Gen. 35:2-4.
IV. Death Claims Loved Ones
13. Deborah and Rachel die. Gen. 35:
8, 16-20.
14. In fond memory. Gen. 48:7; 49:31;
Jer. 31:15, 16; Matt. 2:17, 18.
1131
THE LESSON
Introduction
Acting on Rebekah's proposal, Jacob con-
spired to impersonate Esau before his aged
father Isaac, and obtained the paternal bless-
ing and birthright. Threatened with death
by his infuriated brother, Jacob followed
the counsel of his parents, and as an exile
from home, made the long, 450-mile journey
northward to his mother's ancestral home
at Haran, near Padan-aram. About ninety-
seven years had elapsed since Eliezer made
the same trip to secure Rebekah as a wife
for Isaac.
Jacob and Rachel Meet
1.
As Jacob neared his destination,
whom did he see and what conversa-
tion ensued? Gen. 29:1-6.
2.
Describe the meeting of Jacob
and Rachel. Gen. 29:9-12.
NOTE.—Then, as now, the well in Mid-
dle Eastern countries was frequently a
meeting place for shepherds and travelers.
Also, a young woman, even among rich and
prosperous families, often serves as shep-
herdess of her father's flock. At this well
near Haran the cousins met for the first
time in their lives, and it appeared to be
love at first sight.
3.
After his cordial greeting, what
proposal did Laban make
to
Jacob?
Gen. 29:13-15.
4.
What was Jacob's reply, and
what agreement was reached? Gen.
29:16-19.
The Years in Padan-aram
5.
What brief statement depicts the
seven-year period of service? Gen.
29:20.
NOTE.—"Jacob gave evidence of his de-
voted affection for Rachel, not alone by his
willingness to serve seven years for her, but
even more by the spirit in which he worked
for his avaricious uncle. Many as were the
days that must pass before Rachel should
become his bride, they were rendered happy
by his love for her. The words used by
Moses to express the depth of Jacob's love
breathe pure affection and tender devo-
tion.—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Gen.
29:20.
6.
At the close of this term of serv-
ice what cruel deception was prac-
ticed upon Jacob? Gen. 29:21-23.
7.
How did Jacob react to this
grevious imposition, and how was
the difficulty adjusted? Gen. 29: 25-28.
NoTE.—Jacob was now reaping what he
had sown. The supplanter and deceiver is
himself the victim of faithless intrigue.
However, Laban's covetous scheme par-
tially appeased Jacob, and at the close of
the seven-day wedding feast, Rachel became
his wife.
"Polygamy had become so widespread
that it had ceased to be regarded as a sin,
but it was no less a violation of the law of
God, and was fatal to the sacredness and
peace of the family
relation."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page 145.
8.
As a result of this dual marriage,
what difficulties arose in the home
life? Gen. 30:1.
NOTE.—Leah considered that she was
hated. See Gen. 29:31, 33. "The fact that
Leah herself was a party to the cheat,
caused Jacob to feel that he could not love
her. His indignant rebuke to Laban was
met with the offer of Rachel for another
seven years' service. But the father in-
sisted that Leah should not be discarded,
since this would bring disgrace upon the
family. Jacob was thus placed in a most
[ 14 ]
painful and trying position; he finally de-
cided to retain Leah and marry Rachel.
Rachel was ever the one best loved; but
his preference for her excited envy and
jealousy, and his life was embittered by
the rivalry between the sister-wives."—
Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 189, 190.
9.
How many children were born
to Leah? Gen. 30:20, 21.
NOTE.—The psalmist declares: "The
wrath of man shall praise Thee: the re-
mainder of wrath shalt Thou restrain."
Ps. 76:10. The divine purpose cannot be
thwarted, and in His providence God over-
rules the mistakes of men to His glory.
Leah appears to have been a worshiper of
the true God and a good mother. One of
her sons, Judah, became the leader among
the twelve brothers; and on the occasion
of Jacob's dying benediction to his sons,
the crowning blessing of the birthright was
bestowed upon Judah. Along the kingly
line of his posterity were David, Solomon,
and the "Lion of the tribe of Judah"—Jesus
Christ.
The Flight to Canaan
10.
After twenty years of service to
Laban, what did Jacob and his family
proceed to do? Gen. 31:1-7, 17-20.
11.
When Laban pursued and
overtook the wayfarers, what incident
occurred? Gen. 31:26-35.
NoTE.—These gods, or teraphim, were
small images, or household gods, and
whether regarded as mere relics or real ob-
jects of worship, they are denounced in
Scripture as "an abomination." In con-
cealing her theft by subtlety, Rachel simu-
lated the crafty ways of both father and
husband.
12.
Following an eventful journey
to Canaan, what instruction did Jacob
give to his household, and with what
result? Gen. 35:2-4.
NoTE.—"He [Jacob] determined that be-
fore going to this sacred spot his household
should be freed from the defilement of
idolatry. . .
"As he reviewed the wonderful dealings
of God with him, his own heart was sof-
tened, his children also were touched by a
subduing power; he had taken the most
effectual way to prepare them to join in
the worship of God when they should ar-
rive at
Bethel."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 205.
Undoubtedly these strange gods included
the teraphim that Rachel had taken from
her father. The co-operation of the house-
hold in this reform is commendable. Even
the jewelry was discarded.
Death Claims Loved Ones
13.
Soon after entering Canaan,
what two funerals occurred? Gen.
35:8, 16-20.
NoTE.—Deborah, who had been a be-
loved nurse in the family of Rebekah and
her children for over 125 years, passed
away, and was buried with expressions of
extreme sorrow. Rachel also, while giving
birth to Benjamin, died along the journey
between Bethel and Bethlehem. This
brought crushing sorrow to Jacob. For
her he had toiled fourteen years. His love
for her was deep and abiding, and to per-
petuate her memory Jacob erected over
her grave a stone pillar that remained as a
famous landmark for several centuries. See
1 Sam. 10:2.
14.
What further references to
Rachel and Leah are found in Scrip-
ture? Gen. 48:7; 49:31; Jer. 31:15,
16; Matt. 2:17, 18.
NoTE.—Near the close of his life, as
Jacob was bestowing farewell blessings
upon his sons, he tenderly mentioned Rachel
and Leah. A thousand years later it ap-
pears that the town of Ramah, near the
tomb of Rachel, was the site of a prison
[15]
camp for Jewish exiles on their way to
Babylonian captivity. Here many were
killed and others brutally treated; hence
"Rachel is represented as witnessing the
distress experienced by her descendants and
as weeping bitterly for her children. Mat-
thew, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit,
applied this passage to Herod's massacre of
the children of Bethlehem."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on Jer. 31:15.
The beautiful promise to Rachel in Jer.
31:16 has also afforded blessed comfort and
assurance to unnumbered mothers in Israel
whose children have been ruthlessly
snatched from their breasts. "They shall
come again from the land of the enemy."
Thoughts for Meditation
Am I contributing my full share to a
happy Christian home? Here is the divine
prescription: Eph. 5:2, 21.
Before Rachel and the family went to
Bethel, they put away their idols and
Jacob buried them. How may I know that
I have surrendered every idol?
Lesson 5, for August 4, 1962
Miriam the Prophetess
MEMORY VERSE: "0
give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy en-
dureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He hath redeemed
from the hand of the enemy." Ps. 107:1,
2.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 243, 288, 382-385; "S.D.A. Bible
Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday: Questions 1, 2.
Monday: Questions 3, 4; begin read-
ing from Study Helps.
Check Here
Tuesday: Questions 5-10.
Wednesday: Questions 11, 12; read
further from Study Helps.
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Helps.
0
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. The Watcher on the Riverbank
1.
Alert and on guard. Ex. 2:1-4.
2.
Conversation with Pharaoh's
daughter. Ex. 2:5-9.
II. Poet, Musician, Prophetess
3.
Associated with Moses and Aaron.
Micah 6:4.
4.
A musician and singer. Ex. 15:20,
21.
III. Her Criticism and Its Penalty
5.
Finding fault with Moses. Num.
12:1.
6.
A further complaint. Num. 12:2.
7.
The divine rebuke. Num. 12:4-9.
8.
Smitten with leprosy. Num.
12:10-12.
9.
The virus of envy. Prov. 14:30;
27:4.
10.
Reaping the harvest. Rom. 1:29-
32;
Gal. 5:19-21.
IV. Her Restoration
11.
Prayer and healing. Num. 12:13-15.
12.
The death of Miriam. Num. 20:1.
[ 16
THE LESSON
Introduction
Poet, Musician, Prophetess
The circumstances of Israel's sojourn in
Egypt are well known. Located in the
fertile section of Goshen, Jacob's descend-
ants prospered and multiplied while the
Egyptians became jealous and apprehensive.
The friendly Hyksos had been driven out,
and the new dynasty, kings who "knew
not Joseph," subjected the Israelites to ab-
ject slavery, treating them with extreme
cruelty. Under these circumstances Amram
and Jochebed of the tribe of Levi were
blessed with the gift of three children—
Miriam, Aaron, and Moses.
The Watcher on the Riverbank
1.
In connection with what inci-
dent is Miriam first mentioned in
Scripture? Ex. 2:1-4.
Non.—Aaron was three years old when
Moses was born, and Miriam must have
been several years older.
Moses' mother did not dare to remain
near the ark to guard it, "lest the child's
life and her own should be forfeited; but
his sister, Miriam, lingered near, apparently
indifferent, but anxiously watching to see
what would become of her little brother."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 243.
2.
When Pharaoh's daughter found
little Moses in the ark, what tactful
inquiry did Miriam make, and with
what result? Ex. 2:5-9.
NoTE.—"The faith and resourcefulness of
a loving mother and the tact and skill of
a prudent sister were crowned with suc-
cess. Not only was Moses' life saved but he
was, as well, returned to his own cradle and
to the bosom of his own mother."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Ex. 2:8.
Reliable evidence points to the belief by
archaeologists that the "Pharaoh's daugh-
ter" here mentioned later became Queen
Hatshepsut, the most remarkable woman
sovereign of ancient Egypt, also the patron
and protector of the youthful Moses.
3.
Its the emancipation of Israel
from Egypt, what three individuals
had a prominent part? Micah 6:4.
NorE.—For approximately eighty years
nothing is known concerning the activities
of Miriam; but when the hour arrived for
God to liberate His people from bondage,
she and her brother Aaron were given
positions of "high honor and leadership
in Israel. Both were endowed with the
prophetic gift," and both were "divinely
associated with Moses in the deliverance of
the
Hebrews."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 382.
4.
When the Israelites were safe
from Pharaoh's army on the victory
shore of the Red Sea, in what ex-
pressions of joy did Miriam lead all
the women? Ex. 15:20, 21.
NoTE.—In this moment of triumph Mir-
iam appears as an inspired and talented
director of music. "Miriam, with her chorus
of women, sang in response to the male
chorus, probably at the termination of each
stanza of the song (after vs. 5, 10, 18).
The words of Miriam's refrain, 'Sing ye to
the lord,' etc., were also the opening words
of "Moses' song of victory (v. 1)."--S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Ex. 15:21.
Her Criticism and Its Penalty
5.
Not long after leaving Mount
Sinai, what criticism did Miriam and
Aaron voice against Moses? Num.
12:1.
NOTE.—"Yielding to the spirit of dis-
satisfaction, Miriam found cause of com-
plaint in events that God had especially
overruled. The marriage of Moses had been
displeasing to her. That he should choose
a woman of another nation, instead of
[17]
taking a wife from among the Hebrews,
was an offense to her family and national
pride. Zipporah was treated with ill-dis-
guised contempt.
"Though called a Tushite woman' (Num-
bers 12:1, R.V.), the wife of Moses was
a Midianite, and thus a descendant of
Abraham. In personal appearance she dif-
fered from the Hebrews in being of a
somewhat darker complexion. Though not
an Israelite, Zipporah was a worshiper of
the true
God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 383.
6.
What other complaint did they
make against their brother? Num.
12:2.
NOTE.—"In the appointment of the sev-
enty elders Miriam and Aaron had not been
consulted, and their jealousy was excited
against Moses. At the time of Jethro's
visit, while the Israelites were on the way
to- Sinai; the ready acceptance by Moses
of the counsel of his father-in-law had
aroused in Aaron and Miriam a fear that
his influence with the great leader exceeded
theirs. In the organization of the council
of elders they felt that their position and
authority had been ignored. . . .
"Smarting under the supposed neglect
shown to herself and Aaron, she regarded
the wife of Moses as the,
cause, concluding
that her influence had prevented him from
taking them into his counsels as formerly."
—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 382-384.
7.
How did the Lord regard this
spirit of criticism? Num. 12:4-9.
NorE.—"God had chosen Moses, and had
put His Spirit upon him; and Miriam and
Aaron, by their murmurings, were guilty of
disloyalty, not only to their appointed
leader, but to God Himself. The seditious
whisperers were summoned to the taber-
nacle, and brought face to face with
Moses."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages
384, 385.
8.
What fateful occuriinces
indi-
cated the divine disfavOr? Num. 12:
10-12.
NoTE.—"The cloud disappeared from the
tabernacle in token of God's displeasure,
and Miriam was smitten. She 'became
leprous, white as snow.' Aaron was spared,
but be was severely rebuked in Miriam's
punishment. Now, their, pride humbled in
the dust, Aaron confessed their sin, and
entreated that his sister might not e left
to perish by that loathsome and deadly
scourge."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
385.
9.
What does Solomon say con-
cerning the grave sin of envy (or
jealousy)? Prov. 14:30; 27:4.
10.
In what category of gross sins
does envy occur, and what retribution
is in store for those who cherish this
evil? Rom. 1:29-32; Gal. 5:19-21.
Her Restoration
11.
What prayer for healing did
Moses offer? What salutary punish-
ment was required? Num. 12:13-15.
NorE.—In the outcry against Moses, it is
evident that Miriam had been the princi-
pal offender. According to the Mosaic code,
a person suffering from leprosy, or recover-
ing from that malady, must go into isola-
tion. In compliance with this, Miriam, a
victim not only of physical leprosy but als
o
of the leprosy of sin (envy), must be
placed in quarantine. "Not until she was
banished from the encampment did the
symbol of God's favor again rest upon the
tabernacle."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
385.
12.
What brief record of Miriam's
death is given in Scripture? Num.
20:1.
Norc.—Following Miriam's grievous sin
she lived thirty-eight years, and died at an
age of some 132 years. This occurred about
four months before Aaron's death and
eleven months before Moses died. Follow-
[ 18 ]
ing the death of the two brothers there
were official periods of mourning, but none
is recorded for Miriam. Could it be that
this was omitted because the sin of envy
had marred this otherwise beautiful and
dedicated life?
Thoughts for Meditation
When tempted to criticize another, what
should I remember? There is a Scriptural
plan for dealing with wrongs among the
membership of the church. See Matt. 18:
15-17. Again, Satan is denounced as the
accuser of the brethren, and those who con-
tinue to follow his sinister example are
often led down the perilous trail to apos-
tasy.
How may I overcome every temptation
to envy, jealousy, and unkind criticism?
Yield to Him who has promised to bring
"into captivity every thought to the obe-
dience of Christ." Let this mind be in you,
and think on the pure, the true, and the
beautiful. 2 Cor. 10:5; Phil. 2:5; 4:8.
Lesson 6, for August 11, 1962
Rahab; Deborah
MEMORY VERSE:
"Praise ye the Lord for the avenging of Israel, when the people
willingly offered themselves. Hear, 0 ye kings; give ear,
0
ye princes; I, even
I, will sing unto the Lord; I will sing praise to the Lord God of Israel." Judges
5:2, 3.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 483, 491-493, 545; "Prophets and
Kings," page 369; "Christ's Object Lessons," page 301; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
Tuesday: Questions 9-11.
duction and survey of the
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
.
lesson.
Thursday: Read Study Helps.
0
Sunday: Questions 1-5.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
0
Monday: Questions 6-8.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I.
Rahab Protects the Spies
1.
In
the home on the wall. Joshua
2:1.
2.
The king's attempt to take the
spies. Joshua 2:2, 3.
3.
Rahab 's strategy. Joshua 2:4-6.
4.
Her remarkable confession of faith.
Joshua 2:8-11.
5.
The mutual pledge. Joshua 2:12-18.
II. Rahab Honored and Rewarded
6. Rescued from the doomed city.
Joshua 6:22, 23.
7. Welcomed and esteemed. Joshua
6:25; Ruth 4:21, 22; Matt. 1:5.
8. Her faith commended. Heb. 11:31;
James 2:25.
III. Deborah, Prophetess and Judge
9. The call for liberation. Judges
4:4-7.
10. Onward to the battlefield. Judges
4:8-10.
11. The victory. Judges 4:14-16, 23.
IV. The Song of Victory
12. Praise to the Lord. Judges 5:1-3.
13. The failure of Meroz. Judges 5:23.
14. The reward of loyalty. Judges 5:31.
f 19 3
THE LESSON
comes but gradually."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
mentary,
on Joshua 2:4.
4. What confession of faith did Ra-
hab express? Joshua 2:8-11.
Introduction
For forty long years the Israelites wan-
dered about in "that great and terrible
wilderness" of the Sinai Peninsula. A new
generation with new leaders were about to
cross over Jordan into the Promised Land;
and the two spies sent by Joshua to in-
vestigate the fortifications of Jericho, won
Rahab and her family from paganism to
the worship of the living God.
A century and a half after Israel's settle-
ment in Canaan and following periods of
apostasy in Israel and oppression by neigh-
boring kingdoms, Deborah the prophetess
became judge over the chosen people. Dur-
ing the years in which the judges ruled in
Israel she appears to have been the only
woman who was elevated to that office.
Rahab Protects the Spies
1.
As Joshua was about to lead Is-
rael to the conquest of Canaan, to
what city did he send spies, and where
did they lodge? Joshua 2:1.
2.
When the king of Jericho heard
that spies had entered his city, what
did he seek to do? Joshua 2:2, 3.
3.
How did Rahab protect the
spies? Joshua 2:4-6.
NOTE.—It must be remembered that
Rahab lived in a corrupt pagan society,
and that among the "abominations of the
heathen," such things as lying and im-
morality were not regarded as great sins.
To save the lives of her guests she told a
series of falsehoods.
"Rahab was faced with what seemed to
her a choice between a greater and a lesser
evil: to share in the responsibility of the
death of two men whom she believed to be
messengers of God, or to tell a lie and save
them. To a Christian a lie can never be
justified, but to a person like Rahab light
NOTE.—"In wicked Jericho the testimony
of a heathen woman was, 'The Lord your
God, He is God in heaven above, and in
earth beneath.' . . . The knowledge of Je-
hovah that had thus come to her, proved
her salvation. By faith `Rahab perished
not with them that believed not.' . . .
And her conversion was not an isolated case
of God's mercy toward idolaters who ac-
knowledged His divine authority."—Proph-
ets
and Kings,
page 369. Observe these ex-
pressions, "Our hearts did melt," and "I
know." While the inhabitants of Jericho
were trembling in terror, Rahab believed,
and passed from fear to faith.
5.
What request did Rahab make,
and what mutual pledge was given?
Joshua 2:12-18.
Rahab Honored and Rewarded
6.
When Jericho was overthrown,
what became of Rahab and her house-
hold? Joshua 6:22, 23.
NOTE.—Rahab had saved the lives of the
spies; now they approach the house on
the wall with a "scarlet threat in the win-
dow," and the occupants are saved. Be-
fore the fated city is destroyed this brave
woman and her family are conducted to a
place of safety "without the camp of Is-
rael." There they would be purified and
purged from their pagan customs and be-
liefs, and instructed in the worship and
service of the true God.
7.
After being welcomed into the
house of Israel, how was Rahab hon-
ored? Joshua 6:25; Ruth 4:21, 22;
Matt. 1:5.
[20]
NoTE.—Since the Scriptures make no
mention of a husband, it is inferred that at
the time of Jericho's capture Rahab had
none. From the above texts it is evident
that after her adoption by the chosen peo-
ple she married Salmon, a prince of Judah,
and thus became the mother of Boaz and
a favored ancestor of David, Solomon, and
Jesus Christ. Truly, God "raises up the poor
from the dust; He lifts the needy from the
ash heap, to make them sit with princes
and inherit a seat of honor." 1 Sam. 2:8,
R.S.V. Even so Rahab is taken from the
mire of an idolatrous society, transplanted
into the family of God, and made the
mother of a blessed and royal posterity.
Nor was He who stooped to take man's
fallen nature ashamed of His ancestry.
8.
In what language do New Testa-
ment writers commend the faith and
courage of Rahab? Heb. 11:31; James
2:25.
Deborah, Prophetess and Judge
9.
After a period of apostasy in
Israel and oppression by a Canaanite
king, what steps did the prophetess
Deborah take to liberate her people?
Judges 4:4-7.
10.
How did Barak respond to the
call, and what did Deborah do to sup-
port the campaign? Judges 4:8-10.
NOTE.
"Deborah's
presence would serve
to make clear that the undertaking was of
God.... It is to the credit of Barak that he
followed prophetic guidance in the danger-
ous undertaking. It is also worthy of note
that Deborah did not draw back from the
course she had prescribed for others. As
for Barak, he preferred the humbler role of
one who was executing the command that
had come from the Lord. He voluntarily
retired behind the authority of a woman
whom God had animated and inspired."—
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Judges 4:8.
11.
When the opportune moment
arrived, what command did Deborah
give
to the captain of Israel's army,
and with what result? Judges 4:14-
16, 23.
NorE.—On the slope of Mount Tabor,
Barak's little army awaited the advance of
Sisera and his host. "Deborah, with the
enthusiasm of a patriot and the inspiration
of a prophetess, looked and prayed to
heaven for the signal to attack. At length
her eye saw it, and she cried: 'Up, for this
is the day in which the Lord hath delivered
Sisera into thine hand!' "—Butler,
The Bi-
ble Work, vol. 3,
p. 186.
The Song of Victory
12.
When the battle was won, how
did Deborah and Barak commemorate
Israel's victory? Judges 5:1-3.
NOTE.—This song, including the entire
chapter of thirty-one verses, is considered
"one of the greatest martial poems ever
written." While God is given full praise for
the glorious triumph, His heroes in the con-
flict are also eulogized. The poem especially
commends the valiant soldiers of Zebulun
and Naphtali as "a people that jeoparded
their lives unto the death." It gives eloquent
praise to Jael, the wife of Heber, for her
fearless deed in executing the captain of
the Canaanite army and thus fulfilling the
divine promise, "I will deliver him into
thine hand." Judges 5:18; 4:7, 9.
13.
In contrast to the grave and
patriotic spirit of others, what did
the people of Meroz fail to do, and
what curse was pronounced upon
them? Judges 5:23.
NoTE.—To be neutral in a time of crisis
is treason. "Many of our people are luke-
warm. They occupy the position of Meroz,
neither for nor against, neither cold nor
hot. They hear the words of Christ, but
do them not. If they remain in this state,
[ 21 ]
He will reject them with abhorrence. Many
of those who have had great light, great
opportunities, and every spiritual advantage
praise Christ and the world with the same
breath. They bow themselves before God
and mammon. They make merry with the
children of the world, and yet claim to be
blessed with the children of God. They
wish to have Christ as their Saviour, but
will not bear the cross and wear His yoke."
—Testimonies, vol.
5, pp. 76, 77.
14. With what words does Deb-
orah's song of triumph close? Judges
5: 3 1.
NOTE.—This radiant picture of those who
love and serve God is further enhanced by
the prophet Daniel as he declared that the
wise would "shine as the brightness of the
firmament," and "as the stars forever and
ever." Likewise the Master Himself em-
ployed the same figure, saying: "Then
shall the righteous shine forth as the sun
in the kingdom of their Father." Dan. 12:3;
Matt. 13:43.
Thoughts for Meditation
The experience of Rahab "teaches three
great lessons: (1) Great sin is no bar to
repentance. (2) Many who before their
conversion led wicked lives may thereafter
distinguish themselves as heroes of faith.
(3) A reputation once established may
cling to a person long after repentance has
erased sin from his life."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on Joshua 2:1.
From the story of Deborah we learn the
vital truth that
human weakness may be
replaced by divine strength.
The promise is
sure: "Fear t-iou not; for I am with thee."
Isa. 41:10.
Lesson 7, for August 18, 1962
Ruth the Moabitess
MEMORY VERSE: "And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from
following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest,
I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God." Ruth 1:16,
STUDY HELP: "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon:
General Intro-
Tuesday:
Questions 9-11.
duction and survey of the
Wednesday:
Questions 12-14.
lesson.
Thursday: Read Study Help.
Sunday:
Questions 1-4.
Friday:
Review entire lesson.
Monday: Questions 5-8.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
II.
I. On the Way to Bethlehem
1.
Departure from Moab. Ruth 1:6,
7.
2.
"For your sakes." Ruth 1:8-13.
3.
Orpah returns to Moab. Ruth 1:14.
4.
Ruth's memorable decision. Ruth
1:15-17.
I 22 ]
The Gleaner
5.
The welcome at Bethlehem. Ruth
1:19-22.
6.
In the harvest field. Ruth 2:2, 3.
7.
Spiritually minded Boaz. Ruth
2:1, 4.
8.
Ruth receives special favors. Ruth
2:5-16.
III. The Friendly Kinsman
9.
A fruitful day of toil. Ruth
2:17-23.
10.
Naomi's suggestion. Ruth 3:1-4.
11.
The assuring reply. Ruth 3:10-13.
IV. The Happy Marriage
12.
Boaz becomes the "redeemer."
Ruth 4:1-9.
13.
Congratulations of the townspeople.
Ruth 4:10-12.
14.
Faith rewarded. Ruth 4:13-17, 21,
22.
THE LESSON
daughters-in-law that prompted Naomi to
urge each of them to return to her parents'
home. Oriental custom bound them to her,
but she refused to press her claim to their
service. She would not compel them to
begin life anew in a strange land, but left
them free to marry again and to set up their
own homes."—S.DA.
Bible Commentary,
on Ruth 1:8.
Introduction
In the days of the judges and during a
time of severe famine, Elimelech and his
wife Naomi, of the tribe of Judah, forsook
their home country, departed from Bethle-
hem, and sought refuge in the land of
Moab, located east of the Dead Sea. Their
two sons accompanied them and married
two young women of that country, Orpah
and Ruth. Tragedy struck the family, how-
ever, and within ten years Elimelech and
the two young men died, leaving the three
widows. The story of Naomi's return to
Bethlehem accompanied by her daughter-
in-law, Ruth, is one of the most heart-
warming in the Bible.
In this unique story we have an intimate
glimpse into the family life of Israel with
its adversities and sorrows, its charms and
delights, and its portrayal of true affection
at its best. "Human kindness, filial piety,
affectionate constancy, uncomplaining toil,
true chastity, sweet patience, strong faith,
noble generosity, simple piety—are all here,
and they are all observed by God, and are
shown to be pleasing to Him, who rewards
them in due time."—Butler,
The Bible
Work,
vol. 3, p. 195.
On the Way to Bethlehem
1.
When Naomi heard that Judah
was again prosperous, what did she
and her daughters-in-law do? Ruth
1:6, 7.
2.
Along the journey, what con-
versation took place among the three
women? Ruth 1:8-13.
Nora.—Observe the phrase, "for your
sakes." Naomi appears as an ideal mother-
in-law. "It was unselfish love for her
3.
How did the young widows re-
act to Naomi's persuasion? Ruth 1:14.
4.
As Naomi continued her unself-
ish plea, what was Ruth's memorable
reply? Ruth 1:15-17.
NOTE.—"Ruth's answer is the keynote of
the whole book. It is not merely that
Ruth's love for her mother-in-law leads
her to cleave to Naomi. Ruth has discov-
ered that it is Naomi's faith that makes her
a wonderful woman."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
mentary,
on Ruth 1:16. In the words of
another, "The cord that drew her (Ruth)
was twisted of two strands, her love to
Naomi and her love of Naomi's God."
Ruth the Gleaner
5.
On the arrival of Naomi and
Ruth at Bethlehem, how were they
received by the townspeople? Ruth
1:19-22.
6.
Soon after reaching Bethlehem,
what did Ruth propose to do? Where
did she go? Ruth 2:2, 3.
[28
]
NoTE.—It was springtime in Judea, for
barley harvest occurred during the months
of March and April. At such times farmers
were bidden to leave the gleanings "for the
stranger, for the fatherless, and for the
widow." Deut. 24:19. Knowing of this
privilege accorded to the needy, Ruth vol-
unteers to act her part as a faithful, frugal
daughter. As a stranger, she knows not
where to go, but is guided by a divine hand
to the field belonging to Boaz.
Many years later, in this same field, or
nearby, Ruth's great-grandson, David the
shepherd boy and harpist, guarded his fa-
ther's flocks; while more than a thousand
years later, other shepherds "keeping
watch over their flocks by night" heard the
angel announcement: "Unto you is born
this day in the City of David a Saviour,
which is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:11.
7.
Who was Boaz, and how did he
treat his workmen? Ruth 2:1, 4.
NoTE.—According to the record it ap-
pears that Boaz was the son of Salmon and
Rahab. If this is the correct understanding,
Ruth became Rahab's daughter-in-law. See
Ruth 4:21.
8.
When Boaz learned the identity
of Ruth, what special favors did he ex-
tend to her? Ruth 2:5-16.
NoTE.—The words of Boaz to Ruth, "the
Lord God of Israel, under whose wings
thou art come to trust" (verse 12), carry
with them rare significance. Ruth had but
recently embraced the religion of Jehovah,
and this statement was intended to
strengthen her new-found faith. A like
figure of speech, "under His wings," was
a favorite with Ruth's descendant, David
(Ps. 17:8; 36:7; 91:4), and was also em-
ployed by Christ (Matt. 23:37).
The Friendly Kinsman
9.
At the close of the first day of
gleaning, what conversation took
place between Ruth and Naomi? Ruth
2:17-23.
NOTE.—As a result of her toil Ruth was
able to carry home "about an ephah of
barley," or about thirty pounds. See
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Ruth 2:17.
10.
Since Boaz had shown such a
friendly interest in Ruth, what sug-
gestion did Naomi make? Ruth 3:1-4.
NOTE.—In the Revised Standard Version,
verse 1 is translated: "My daughter, should
I not seek a home for you?" "Naomi felt
it her duty to do what she could to provide
a home for the daughter-in-law who had
so loyally followed her, and accordingly
explained to Ruth her right, according to
Jewish custom, to call upon Boaz to per-
form the duties of a near kinsman. If Boaz
agrees to marry her, Ruth will not only
have a home of her own but will also be
able to perpetuate the name and preserve
the heritage of her deceased husband."—
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Ruth 3:1.
11.
When Ruth presented this pro-
posal to Boaz, what was his reply?
Ruth 3:10-13.
NOTE.-"A
kinsman nearer than I." Prop-
erty was naturally bequeathed from father
to son, but in case of death or adversity
the estate might be lost to the family. In
such circumstance the nearest of kin had
the legal right to redeem it and seek to pre-
serve the family title of inheritance.
The Happy Marriage
12.
On the next morning when the
two kinsmen met, how was the prob-
lem settled? Ruth 4:1-9.
NOTE.—Boaz desired that the transaction
should be entirely legal, so the elders or
city councilors were called to witness and
confirm the procedure. In this case Naomi
had specified that the purchaser of the
property should also become the husband
of Ruth, thus hoping for a grandson who
would be the heir to the family estate.
[ 24
13.
How did the townspeople re-
gard this marriage, and when a son
was born what words of congratula-
tion were expressed? Ruth 4:10-12.
14.
In what wonderful way was
the blessing of the people upon Ruth
fulfilled? Ruth 4:13-17, 21, 22.
NoTE.—The grand climax of the story is
reached. Ruth the Moabitess marries a kins-
man, a progenitor of the illustrious family
line that gave to the world David, Solomon,
and the Lord Jesus Christ. The word
translated "kinsman" is from the same
Hebrew root as the word that is translated
in the Old Testament "redeemer." Accord-
ingly, various Bible writers employed the
figure of Christ as the "Near Kinsman" or
Redeemer who would deliver man from sin
and death. See Job 19:25; Ps. 19:14; Isa.
54:5. Truly our hearts rejoice in gratitude
to our "Elder Brother," our "Nearest Kins-
man," our Redeemer, who has ransomed us
from the power of Satan to become "heirs
of God, and joint heirs with Christ."
Thoughts for Meditation
Shall we not adorn the religion of Christ,
making it so lovely, so attractive, that even
the pagan heart will exclaim, "Thy peo-
ple shall be my people, and thy God my
God"?
If the Jews of Christ's day had learned
the lesson from the book of Ruth, would
they have been so rigidly exclusive? Do
I require a new appreciation of the worth
of every soul for whom Christ died? Am
I a respecter of persons?
Lesson 8, for August 25, 1962
Hannah; Rizpah
MEMORY VERSE:
"The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and
saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." Ps. 34:18.
STUDY HELPS:
"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 569-574; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-
tary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
Tuesday: Questions 7-11.
duction and survey of the
Wednesday: Questions 12-14.
CI
lesson.
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Helps.
Monday: Questions 5, 6; begin
Friday: Review entire lesson.
reading Study Helps.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Hannah, a Woman of Piety
1.
An unhappy home. 1 Sam.
1:1-6.
2.
Hannah's grief. 1 Sam. 1:7-9.
3.
A prayer and a vow. 1 Sam.
1:10, 11.
4.
Conversation with Eli. 1 Sam.
1:12-18.
II. Answered Prayer
5.
The reward of faith. 1 Sam.
1:19,
20.
6.
The song of gratitude. 1 Sam.
2:1-10.
[26
1
III. Hannah and Samuel
11. The youthful priest. 1 Sam.
3:18-20.
7.
Her sacred trust. 1 Sam. 1:21-23.
8.
Dedicated to the Lord. 1 Sam.
1:24-28.
9.
The high priest's benediction.
1 Sam. 2:20, 21.
10.
The annual visit and gift. 1 Sam.
2:18, 19.
IV. Rizpah's Undying Love
12.
A great sorrow. 2 Sam. 21:8, 9.
13.
The lonely vigil. 2 Sam. 21:10.
14.
An honored burial. 2 Sam.
21:11-14.
THE LESSON
2. When the family went to Shiloh
to attend the hallowed feasts, what
trouble developed? 1 Sam. 1:7-9.
Introduction
The events recorded in the first part of
this lesson occurred during the latter part
of Israel's rule by judges, believed to be
somewhat prior to 1100 B.C.
"Elkanah, a Levite of Mount Ephraim,
was a man of wealth and influence, and
one who loved and feared the Lord. His
wife, Hannah, was a woman of fervent
piety. Gentle and unassuming, her char-
acter was marked with deep earnestness
and a lofty faith.
"The blessing so earnestly sought by
every Hebrew was denied this godly pair;
their home was not gladdened by the voice
of childhood; and the desire to perpetuate
his name led the husband—as it had led
many others—to contract a second mar-
riage. But this step, prompted by a lack
of faith in God, did not bring happiness."
Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 569.
Hannah, a Woman of Piety
1. What conditions prevailed in
Elkanah's home, and how did this af-
fect Hannah? 1 Sam. 1:1-6.
Nora.—"Sons and daughters were added
to the household; but the joy and beauty
of God's sacred institution had been marred
and the peace of the family was broken.
Peninnah, the new wife, was jealous and
narrow-minded, and she bore herself with
pride and insolence. To Hannah, hope
seemed crushed and life a weary burden;
yet she met the trial with uncomplaining
meekness."—Patriarchs
and Prophets,
page
569.
God has in store a blessing even for the
afflicted soul who earnestly seeks Him.
NorE.—The tabernacle at Shiloh was
only about twelve miles distant from Elka-
nah's home, and he appears to have been
a regular attendant at the annual gather-
ings. Yet even at these sacred services the
domestic troubles seem to have been ag-
gravated. As Elkanah appeared somewhat
partial to Hannah, "the second wife, fired
with jealousy, claimed the precedence as
one highly favored of God, and taunted
Hannah with her childless state as evidence
of the Lord's displeasure. This was repeated
from year to year, until Hannah could en-
dure it no longer. Unable to hide her grief,
she wept without restraint, and withdrew
from the
feast."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
pages 569, 570.
3.
As Hannah wept and prayed,
what vow did she make? 1 Sam. 1:
10, 11.
NorE.—In this solemn pledge, known as
the Nazarite vow, Hannah would dedicate
her child from birth to be wholly the
Lord's. As a token of this consecration, no
razor should "come upon his head."
4.
While Hannah was praying in
the temple, who spoke to her, and
what conversation ensued? 1 Sam.
1:12-18.
Answered Prayer
5.
How was Hannah's faith re-
warded? 1 Sam. 1:19, 20.
[ 26 ]
NoTE.—"Hannah's prayer was granted;
she received the gift for which she had so
earnestly entreated. As she looked upon
the child, she called him Samuel—`asked
of God.'
"—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page
570.
6.
In what song of praise did Han-
nah express her gratitude? 1 Sam.
2:1-10.
NOTE.—"The grief of earlier days is now
turned to exaltation in the Lord. The
prayer of yearning has given place to the
praise of divine strength. Her lips, once
closed in silent endurance, are now opened
to extol God's almighty power. . . . She
finds inspiration for song far beyond the
range of her own experience, and under the
guidance of the Holy Spirit looks forward
to the joy of the redeemed as they stand on
the sea of glass with a 'new song' on their
lips. . . .
"Victory takes the place of defeat, and
in the fullness of joy the soul is formed in
the image of Christ."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
mentary,
on 1 Sam. 2:7, 8.
Hannah and Samuel
7.
Following the birth of Samuel,
to what task did Hannah especially
devote her time and energies? 1 Sam.
1:21-23.
NorE.—Recognizing her little babe as a
heavenly gift, Hannah "sought to have him
trained for God from his earliest infancy.
She ministered to his physical needs with
much care and prayer, directing his thoughts
toward the Lord of hosts from the very
earliest age. That she might the more
perfectly fulfill her trust, she did not visit
Shiloh till after he was weaned. How far-
reaching is the influence of a mother in
Israel
!"—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
on
1 Sam. 1:22.
8.
When the child was weaned, to
whom did Hannah present him? 1
Sam. 1:24-28.
NorE.—The time when Samuel was
weaned is not known. In accord with
Hebrew custom he may have been from
three to five years of age. During those
precious years what a priceless privilege
was accorded to Hannah!
"There are opportunities of inestimable
worth, interests infinitely precious, com-
mitted to every mother. The humble round
of duties which women have come to re-
gard as a wearisome task should be looked
upon as a grand and noble work. It is the
mother's privilege to bless the world by her
influence, and in doing this she will bring
joy to her own heart. She may make
straight paths for the feet of her children,
through sunshine and shadow, to the glori-
ous heights
above."—Patriarchs and Proph-
ets,
page 572.
9.
What blessing did Eli, the high
priest, pronounce upon the happy
husband and wife? 1 Sam. 2:20, 21.
10.
Although separated from her
son during most of each year, how
did Hannah reveal her continued de-
votion and love? 1 Sam. 2:18, 19.
NoTE.—"When separated from her child,
the faithful mother's solicitude did not
cease. Every day he was the subject of
her prayers. Every year she made, with
her own hands, a robe of service for him;
and as she went up with her husband to
worship at Shiloh, she gave the child this
reminder of her love. Every fiber of the
little garment had been woven with a
prayer that he might be pure, noble, and
true."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 572.
11.
How was Hannah's conse-
crated life and teaching reflected in
the character of her son? 1 Sam. 3:
18-20.
NOTE.—"Young as he was when brought
to minister in the tabernacle, Samuel had
even then duties to perform in the service
of God, according to his capacity. These
were at first very humble, and not always
pleasant; but they were performed to the
[ 27 2
best of his ability, and with a willing heart.
His religion was carried into every duty of
life. He regarded himself as God's servant,
and his work as God's work. His efforts
were accepted, because they were prompted
by love to God and a sincere desire to do
His will. It was thus that Samuel became
a co-worker with the Lord of heaven and
earth. And God fitted him to accomplish a
great work for
Israel."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
pages 573, 574.
Rizpah's Undying Love
12.
Who was Rizpah, and what
grievous sorrow did she experience?
2 Sam. 21:8, 9.
NOTE.—Rizpah, one of the "lowly folk of
the Great Book," had been a secondary wife
of King Saul. Tragedy after tragedy had
befallen her relatives and friends, and now
supposedly to atone for the heartless cruelty
of her deceased husband toward the Gib-
eonites, her two beloved sons, together with
five grandsons of Saul, were hanged in
Gibeah, not far from the former king's
royal palace.
13.
When this occurred, what did
Rizpah do? 2 Sam. 21:10.
NoTE.—To leave persons unburied indi-
cated that they were held in ignominy.
While others despised her sons as criminals,
Rizpah demonstrated her motherly love by
remaining at the place of execution until
they were honorably buried. She could not
do what she would like to do, so she did
what she could do by protecting their
bodies.
On the top of the rock, Rizpah spread
her mourning garment of sackcloth ; and
there for five months, from April to Octo-
ber, this devoted mother kept her lonely
vigil. With no tent for a shelter from the
scorching summer sun, or the chilling dews
of night, she guarded those lifeless bodies
from the vultures by day and the wild
beasts that prowled by night. Almost be-
yond the power of tongue to tell was the
tender, loving endurance of this mother in
Israel.
14.
When King David heard of this
rare example of mother love, what
did he do? 2 Sam. 21:11-14.
NoTE.—This was not a case of extreme
and unremitting sorrow, but rather intense
maternal love that led Rizpah to seek
the safety and honor of the dead.
As the heart of David was stirred to pity
and admiration, he ordered an honorable
burial. And God, looking down from above
to behold a mother's undying love and
sacrifice, caused this incident to be recorded
in His Book as a memorial to her.
Thoughts for Meditation
In this lesson two remarkable mothers
are presented—one for her faith, piety, and
influence upon her son Samuel; the other
for her heroism, constancy, and exhaustless
love for her ill-fated sons.
Beyond any human affection, we are re-
minded of another "love" that is without
parallel—of a love that "is infinite and a
tender pity surpassing a mother's yearning
sympathy for her wayward
child."—Steps
to Christ,
page 15.
Rizpah's mourning for her dead is not to
be taken as an example for the Christian
to follow in face of death. The apostle
Paul instructed the church at Thessalonica
concerning "them which are asleep," that
they "sorrow not, even as others which
have no hope." 1 Thess. 4:13. Ellen G.
White, commenting on this text, says:
"Now they rejoiced in the knowledge that
their believing friends would be raised from
the grave to live forever in the kingdom of
God. The darkness that had enshrouded
the resting place of the dead was dispelled.
A new splendor crowned the Christian faith,
and they saw a new glory in the life, death,
and resurrection of Christ.
" 'Even so them also which sleep in Jesus
will God bring with Him,' Paul wrote.
Many interpret this passage to mean that
the sleeping ones will be brought with
Christ from heaven; but Paul meant that
as Christ was raised from the dead, so God
will call the sleeping saints from their
graves and take them with Him to heaven.
Precious consolation! glorious hope! not
only to the church of Thessalonica, but to
all Christians wherever they may be."—
The Acts of the Apostles,
page 259.
[28]
Lesson 9, for September 1, 1962
"That Woman Jezebel"
MEMORY VERSE:
"And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt
ye between two opinions? if the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, them
follow him. And the people answered him not a word." 1 Kings 18:21.
STUDY HELPS:
"Prophets and Kings," pages 114-116, 123-126, 159, 160, 204-207,
215, 216; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
reading Study Helps.
duction and survey of the
Wednesday: Questions 11-13.
0
lesson.
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Sunday: Questions 1-3.
Helps.
Monday: Questions 4-7.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Tuesday: Questions 8-10; begin
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Baal Worship Introduced
1.
Ahab marries a pagan wife. 1 Kings
16:29-31.
2.
Altars for Baal and Astarte.
1 Kings 16:32, 33.
3.
Extreme religious bigotry. 1 Kings
21:25, 26; 18:4.
II. The Message of Elijah
4.
Penalty for disobedience. 1 Kings
17:1.
5.
Elijah's appeal. 1 Kings 18:21.
6.
Fate of the false prophets. 1 Kings
18:39, 40.
7. Jezebel's fury. 1 Kings 19:2.
III. A Heartless Queen
8. Naboth's vineyard coveted. 1 Kings
21:5-7.
9. Vicious strategy. 1 Kings 21:8-14.
10. Elijah's alarming prophecy. 1 Kings
21:17-19, 23, 24.
IV. Jezebel's Death and Influence
11. Predictions appallingly fulfilled.
1 Kings 22:34, 37, 38; 2 Kings 9:30,
33-36.
12. The queen's posterity. 1 Kings
22:40; 2 Kings 1:2-4, 17; 8:16-18;
11:1.
13. Jezebel in prophecy. Rev. 2:18-20.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Following the illustrious reigns of David
and Solomon, ten tribes, located in the
north and east sections of Palestine, re-
volted and established a rival government
which was henceforth known as the king-
dom of Israel. The tribes of Judah and
Benjamin, with their capital at Jerusalem,
comprised the kingdom of Judah. In the
northern kingdom idolatry became preva-
lent, and after some fifty-seven hectic years
of strife and turmoil, Ahab, the seventh
king of that nation, came to the throne.
[ 29 ]
Baal Worship Introduced
The Message of Elijah
1.
Among the first recorded acts of
Ahab's reign, what evil alliance was
formed? 1 Kings 16:29-31.
NOTE.—With the evident thought of
strengthening his position on the throne of
Israel, Ahab married Jezebel, daughter of
the priest-king of Sidon. This act was in
direct violation of the express instruction
of God. See Ex. 34:16.
2.
Mention the further steps taken
in apostasy. 1 Kings 16:32, 33.
NoTE.—The chief national god of the
Canaanites was Baal, whose spirit was
variously supposed to animate holy trees,
springs, mountaintops, vegetation, the cat-
tle, the sun, etc.
This degrading worship sometimes in-
cluded the burning of children in fire, and
other heartless and abominable rites. Baal
was the male deity, while the "grove" rep-
resented the goddess Astarte, or Ashtoreth.
All such worship was in bold and open
transgression of the first and second com-
mandments.
3.
In her fanatical zeal for pagan-
ism, what extreme measures did Jeze-
bel influence her husband to employ?
1 Kings 21:25, 26; 18:4.
NoTE.—Jezebel's boundless zeal for Baal
was worthy of a better cause. While she
put to death the prophets of God, she im-
ported and maintained 850 pagan mission-
aries to convert the people to idolatry. See
1 Kings 18:19.
"Not only did Ahab introduce Baal wor-
ship at the capital city, but under the lead-
ership of Jezebel he erected heathen altars
in many 'high places,' where in the shelter
of surrounding groves the priests and oth-
ers connected with this seductive form of
idolatry exerted their baleful influence, un-
til well-nigh all Israel were following after
Baal."—Prophets and Kings,
page 114.
4.
Appearing abruptly before King
Ahab, what startling forecast did
Elijah make? 1 Kings 17:1.
5.
After three years of famine,
when Elijah met the multitudes on
Mount Carmel, what challenging mes-
sage did he give? 1 Kings 18:21.
6.
When the people witnessed the
signal display of divine power at
Elijah's altar, what did they declare?
and what fate overtook the prophets
of Baal? 1 Kings 18:39, 40.
7.
When Jezebel learned that the
false teachers had been slain, what
message did she send to Elijah? 1
Kings 19:2.
NOTE.—"AS Ahab told the queen of the
slaying of the idolatrous prophets, Jezebel,
hardened and impenitent, became infuriated.
She refused to recognize in the events on
Carmel the overruling providence of God,
and, still defiant, she boldly declared that
Elijah should
die."—Prophets and Kings,
page 159.
However, the prophet Elijah escaped her
vengeance, and a few years later was trans-
lated without tasting death.
A Heartless Queen
8.
When Naboth refused to sell his
vineyard to the king, what was Jeze-
bel's reaction? 1 Kings 21:5-7.
9.
By what means did Jezebel ac-
complish her wicked purpose? 1
Kings 21:8-14.
[80]
NorE.—The ready compliance of the
city elders and nobles to execute this foul
plot indicates the low moral standard to
which rulers and people had fallen. Even
Naboth's sons were put to death with him,
so that there would be no living descend-
ant to claim the property. See 2 Kings
9:26. Such brutality is not only character-
istic of pagan despotism, but also of those
governments, ancient or modern, which
defy and repudiate God.
10.
As Ahab went to take posses-
sion of the vineyard, what dire proph-
ecy did Elijah convey to him? 1
Kings 21:17-19, 23, 24.
NOTE.—"Whatsoever a man soweth, that
shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7. "Jezebel
thought she had everything perfectly ar-
ranged, but she had not reckoned with
God. The Lord in heaven saw all that was
taking place. The terrible crime of Ahab
could not be allowed to go unrebuked."—
S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on 1 Kings
21:17.
Jezebel's Death and Influence
11.
In what manner were these
predictions fulfilled? 1 Kings 22:34,
37, 38; 2 Kings 9:30, 33-36.
NOTE.—"Having had word of the death
of the two kings, her son and grandson,
she well knew that her turn was next. She
must prepare for her last moment on earth.
And what a preparation this evil woman
made! . . .
"She was defiant and unrepentant to the
last. She decked herself in all her ornaments
and put on her most stately attire. But
her outward adorning was to avail her
nothing, either before Jehu or before the
judgment bar of God."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
mentary,
on 2 Kings 9:30.
12.
What is recorded concerning
Jezebel's son and daughter? 1 Kings
22:40; 2 Kings 1:2-4, 17; 8:16-18;
11:1.
NorE.—When Jezebel's son, Ahaziah, re-
ceived an injury, he called for help to the
god of Ekron, because of which sin he died
after a lingering illness. His son, the grand-
son of Jezebel, following a rather brief,
wicked reign was killed by Jehu, and his
body was thrown into the field of Naboth
to avenge fittingly the innocent blood shed
by his grandparents.
Jezebel's daughter, Athaliah, married Je-
horam, king of Judah, and introduced the
worship of Baal into that kingdom. The
king followed his wife into idolatry, and
after an inglorious reign died unmourned.
See 2 Chron. 21:18-20. The son of Jehoram
and Athaliah was killed after reigning but
one year. Then Athaliah, the fiendish
daughter of ruthless Jezebel, killed her
own grandsons and stepgrandsons in order
that she might rule as queen. Seven years
later her own subjects rose against her and
put an end to her vicious career. See 2
Kings 11:1, 16, 20. Thus ingloriously per-
ished the descendants of infamous Queen
Jezebel.
13.
In the prophecy of the seven
churches, what reference is made to
Jezebel? Rev 2:18-20.
NorE.—These words describe the church
of Christ during the long period of papal
triumph and persecution. The expression
"that woman Jezebel" is here used in a
figurative sense, as the church of the apos-
tasy that introduced error.
Thoughts for Meditation
This tragic narrative, although so pain-
ful to relate, was nevertheless recorded
aforetime for our admonition that it may
emphasize the fearful harvest of apostasy.
"Never should God's people venture upon
forbidden ground. Marriage between be-
lievers and unbelievers is forbidden by
God."—Messages to Young People,
page
436.
"Unless you would have a home where
the shadows are never lifted, do not unite
yourself with one who is an enemy of God."
Ibid.,
page 440.
Concerning those who venture on this
fateful experiment, these words are spoken:
"When it is too late, they find that they
have made a mistake, and have imperiled
their happiness in this life and the salva-
tion of their souls."—Ibid., page 459.
[ 31
1
Lesson 10, for September 8, 1962
Esther, the Persian Queen
MEMORY VERSE:
"For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall
there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but
thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether
thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Esther 4:14.
STUDY HELPS:
"Prophets and
.
Kings," pages 598-606; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Monday: Questions 5-7.
Check Here
Tuesday: Questions
8-11.
Wednesday: Questions
12-14.
Thursday: Read Study Helps.
Friday: Review entire
lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Esther Becomes Queen
1.
The search for a new queen. Esther
2:1-4.
2.
Esther enters the palace. Esther
2:5-7.
3.
The coronation. Esther 2:16-18.
4.
Esther's regard for Mordecai.
Esther 2:20.
II. Haman's Plot
5.
Mordecai and Haman. Esther
3 : 1-4.
6.
The plot and the king's reaction.
Esther 3:5-11.
7. Effect
upon the
Jews. Esther 4:1-3.
III. Facing the Crisis
8. Mordecai's message to Esther.
Esther 4:13, 14.
9. Esther accepts the challenge.
Esther 4:15-17.
10. The first banquet. Esther 5:1-8.
11. The sleepless night and events of
the
following day. Esther 6:1-14.
IV. The Miraculous Deliverance
12. The second banquet and Haman's
fall. Esther 7:1-10.
13. A superseding decree. Esther
8:1-14.
14. Deliverance and rejoicing. Esther
8:16, 17; 9:17, 26-28.
THE LESSON
Introduction
Because of national apostasy God used
Nebuchadnezzar to punish His rebellious
people. Jerusalem was captured, the mag-
nificent temple was destroyed, and multi-
tudes of the Jews were carried into Baby-
lonian captivity. With the overthrow of
Babylon by the Medo-Persians, kings Cy-
rus and Darius issued decrees granting
the Jews permission to return to their
homeland; but the number of exiles who
availed themselves of this oportunity was
disappointingly small. More than fifty
years elapsed, and as the narrative of the
book of Esther opens, Mordecai, a Benja-
mite, is a trusty employee at
the
Persian
court in Shushan.
[ 32
Esther Becomes Queen
1.
When Queen Vashti was de-
posed from her royal throne, what
method was used to select a new
queen? Esther 2:1-4.
NOTE.—King Ahasuerus of the book of
Esther was the son of Darius the Great,
and is known in secular history as Xerxes.
2.
Among the other maidens
brought to the court, what Jewish
girl was presented? Esther 2:5-7.
NOTE.—Hadassah (meaning "myrtle")
was an orphan girl who was adopted and
reared by her cousin Mordecai. Her name
Esther (probably from a Persian word
meaning "star") was doubtless given her
at the time she was presented at the royal
palace.
3.
How did the king receive and
honor Esther? Esther 2:16-18.
NoTE.—On the occasion of Esther's coro-
nation, the king "made a release to the
provinces," remitting to them the usual
levy of tribute. Also according to the Per-
sian custom, Esther would receive as her
personal allowance one tenth of all fines
collected by the king.
4.
Even though elevated to become
queen of the realm, how did Esther
still regard Mordecai? Esther 2:20.
NoTE.—This cordial relationship between
Esther and her foster father is an eloquent
tribute to the happy, congenial home life
Mordecai had provided for his adopted
daughter. In this delightful environment
Esther had developed beauty of character
as well as beauty of appearance. "Happy
the home where parental authority is bal-
anced with respect for the individuality of
its youth, where parental control is ex-
ercised with the objective of developing
self-control. Like Esther, such youth leave
home with well-balanced personalities and
disciplined characters."—S.D.A.
Bible Com-
mentary,
on Esther 2:20.
Haman's Plot
5.
After Haman had been advanced
to the position of prime minister,
what attitude did Mordecai pursue?
Esther 3:1-4.
NOTE.—"Through Haman, . . .
Satan
worked at this time to counterwork the
purposes of God. Haman cherished bitter
malice against Mordecai, a Jew. Morde-
cai had done Haman no harm, but had
simply refused to show him worshipful
reverence."—Prophets and Kings,
page 600.
6.
What wicked plot did Haman
conceive, and what was the king's re-
action to it? Esther 3:5-11.
NoTE.—To secure the king's assent to
this diabolical scheme, Haman offered to
pay ten thousand talents of silver, or about
$6,350,000, into the government treasury;
but the king appears to have refused the
bribe. "Little did the king realize the far-
reaching results that would have accom-
panied the complete carrying out of this
decree. Satan himself, the hidden insti-
gator of the scheme, was trying to rid the
earth of those who preserved the knowledge
of the true
God."—Prophets and Kings,
pages 600, 601.
7.
When this edict was published
in Shushan and throughout the em-
pire, what demonstration took place
among the Jews? Esther 4:1-3.
Facing
the Crisis
8.
After Esther and her cousin
had
communicated with each other con-
cerning this crisis, what message
did
Mordecai send to the queen? Esther
4:13, 14.
[ 33 ]
NOTE.—"Mordecai perceived the out-
working of Divine Providence. Perhaps no
more dramatic challenge to courage, loyalty,
and self-sacrifice ever confronted a repre-
sentative of the kingdom of heaven. But
the challenge to us today is no less im-
perative and no less
real."—S.D.A. Bible
Commentary,
on Esther 4:14.
9.
Facing this dramatic moment
with heaven-born courage, how did
Esther reply? Esther 4:15-17.
NorE.—"The crisis that Esther faced de-
manded quick, earnest action; but both
she and Mordecai realized that unless God
should work mightily in their behalf, their
own efforts would be unavailing. So Esther
took time for communion with God, the
source of her strength."—Prophets
and
Kings,
page 601.
10.
How did Esther approach the
king, and what invitation did she ex-
tend? Esther 5:1-8.
Norr.—In all this Esther displays mar-
velous courage, tact, and resourcefulness.
Instead of immediately approaching the
king with her great request, she does not
divulge the purpose of her coming. Once
before she had warned the king of a plot
against his life (Esther 2:21-23) ; now he
must realize that it was a vital life-and-
death matter, else she would not have
risked her life by coming uninvited into the
royal presence.
11.
Tell briefly of the king's sleep-
less night, and of the events of the
following day. Esther 6:1-14.
NorE.—While the book of Esther makes
no mention of God, it nevertheless portrays
those marvelous divine providences that
reveal an omnipotent overruling Hand in
the affairs of men.
The Miraculous Deliverance
12.
Describe the second banquet
and the fateful outcome to Haman.
Esther 7:1-10.
NorE.—For two days Esther had held the
king in suspense regarding her request,
while preparing him for the real shock.
Now he presses the question for the third
time. At last her lips are unsealed, and
from this timid, retiring young woman there
flashes forth her impassioned denunciation
of Haman's monstrous plot. She declares,
"We are sold," and uses the very words of
the infamous decree—"destroy," "kill," and
"perish"—with telling effect.
The gallows "fifty cubits high" (about
eighty-six feet) that Haman had prepared
for Mordecai, is now used for his own ex-
ecution. All the people of Shushan could
thus witness his inglorious end.
13.
To what position was Morde-
cai then promoted, and what decree
was issued? Esther 8:1-14.
NOTE.—The purpose of this decree was
to countermand the former edict of exter-
mination. It did not delegate authority to
the Jews to destroy their enemies, but
simply to stand in their own defense.
"On the day appointed for their destruc-
tion, 'the Jews gathered themselves to-
gether in their cities: . . . and no man
could withstand them; for the fear of them
fell upon all people.' Angels that excel in
strength had been commissioned by God
to protect His people while they 'stood for
their
lives.'"—Prophets and Kings,
page
602.
14.
What was the effect of this
proclamation? Esther 8:16, 17; 9:17,
26-28.
NorE.—The thirteenth day of the twelfth
month, that was to witness the com-
plete annihilation of the Jews, was turned
to a day of deliverance and gladness. Ha-
man had cast lots, or "Pur," to determine
the auspicious day for the wholesale de-
struction•
'
so the Jews adopted the word
"Purim" for the day of their great celebra-
tion, and this feast is still observed by
Jews throughout the world.
Thoughts for Meditation
"The trying experiences that came to
God's people in the days of Esther were not
peculiar to that age alone. . . . The decree
34
that will finally go forth against the rem-
nant people of God will be very similar to
that issued by Ahasuerus against the Jews.
Today the enemies of the true church see in
the little company keeping the Sabbath
commandment, a Mordecai at the gate. The
reverence of God's people for His law is a
constant rebuke to those who have cast off
the fear of the Lord and are trampling on
His Sabbath. . . . On this battlefield will
he fought the last great conflict in the con-
troversy between truth and error. And we
are not left in doubt as to the issue. Today,
as in the days of Esther and Mordecai, the
Lord will vindicate His truth and His
peo-
ple."-Prophets and Kings,
pages 605, 606.
Do I realize that as one of God's rem-
nant people, I have "come to the kingdom
for such a time as this"?
"The words of Mordecai to Esther may
apply to the men and youth of today."-
Testimonies, vol.
5, p. 321.
Lesson 11, for September 15, 1962
Mary, the Mother of Jesus
MEMORY VERSE:
"And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit
hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For He hath regarded the low estate of His
handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me
blessed." Luke 1:46-48.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Desire of Ages," pages 44, 50-58, 80-83, 144-147, 751, 752
(Christian Home Library ed., pp. 23, 27-34, 54-58, 119-122,
741,
742);
"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday: Questions 1-4.
Monday: Questions 5-8; begin read-
ing Study Helps.
Check Here
Tuesday: Questions 9, 10; read
further from Study Helps.
Wednesday: Questions 11-13.
Thursday: Questions 14, 15; finish
reading Study Helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Blessed Among Women
1.
Gabriel's message. Luke 1:28-33.
2.
The humble response. Luke 1:38.
3.
Mary's song of praise. Luke
1:46-54.
4.
Joseph's dream. Matt. 1:18-24.
II. To Bethlehem, Jerusalem, and
Egypt
5.
The decree of Augustus Caesar.
Luke 2:1-5.
6.
The birth of Jesus. Luke 2:6-16;
Matt. 1:25.
7.
Presentation at the temple. Luke
2:22-24.
8. Two notable testimonies. Luke
2:25-38.
9. The flight to Egypt. Matt. 2:13-15.
10. The return to Nazareth. Matt.
2:19-23.
III. At the Passover and the Wedding
Feast
11.
A time of anxiety. Luke 2:41-45.
12. Mary's gentle rebuke. Luke 2:46-
51.
13. The marriage at Cana. John 2:1-5.
IV. Calvary and the Upper Room
14. Standing near the cross. John
19:25-27.
15. At the memorable prayer .meeting.
Acts 1:14.
35
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Providence had directed the movements
of nations, and the tide of human impulse
and influence, until the world was ripe for
the coming of the Deliverer. The nations
were united under one government. One
language was widely spoken, and was every-
where recognized as the language of lit-
erature. . . . At this time the systems of
heathenism were losing their hold upon the
people. Men were weary of pageant and
fable."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 32.
Oppression and corruption were well-nigh
universal. Society was at its lowest ebb.
"Sin had become a science, and vice was
consecrated as a part of religion."
Then "the fullness of time was come,"
the times foretold by holy prophets of old,
and Gabriel, the same mighty angel who
had appeared to Daniel centuries before,
visited a virtuous young woman in the ob-
scure little town of Nazareth to inform her
that she was to be highly favored above
every other woman on the face of the earth.
Blessed Among Women
1.
What extraordinary and star-
tling message did Gabriel bring to
Mary? Luke 1:28-33.
NoTE.—Although the parents of Mary
are not mentioned, it is known that she
was of the house and lineage of David. See
Rom. 1:3;
The Desire of Ages,
page 44.
Many believe that the genealogy as re-
corded in Luke 3 is that of Mary, while the
one given in Matthew 1 traces the ancestry
of Joseph.
2.
After Mary had been informed
concerning the miraclous conception,
what was her humble response?
Luke
1:38.
NoTE.—She feels altogether unworthy;
yet if one of such lowly estate should be
the recipient of so great a gift and honor,
she will be meekly resigned to the will of
God. What a remarkable instance of beau-
tiful, simple, and childlike trust!
3.
While Mary was visiting her rel-
ative, Elisabeth, in Judea, what song
of praise did she sing? Luke 1:46-54.
NoTE.—"The gift of inspiration now
seems to fall upon Mary, who speaks forth
in calm and majestic strains. Every idea,
even her very words, reflect what inspired
men had written in times past. The song
of Mary (vs. 46-55) is considered one of
the most sublime hymns in all sacred liter-
ature, a lyric of exquisite beauty worthy of
Mary's ancestor David."—S.D.A.
Bible
Commentary,
on Luke 1:46.
The two devoted women—Elisabeth, to
become the mother of John the Baptist,
and Mary, to be the mother of Jesus—
evidently enjoyed blessed communion to-
gether during the three months' visit. See
Luke 1:56.
4.
At about this time, what rare ex-
perience came to Joseph? Matt. 1:
18-24.
NOTE.—The marvelous prophecy of the
virgin birth given more than seven cen-
turies previously was about to be fulfilled.
To Bethlehem, Jerusalem,
and Egypt
5.
Relate the circumstances that
brought Joseph and Mary to Bethle-
hem. Luke 2:1-5.
NoTE.—This imperial decree, together
with the fact that at this time Cyrenius
was governor of Syria, helps to establish
the date of the visit to Bethlehem.
6.
While Joseph and Mary were
lodged in a stable at Bethlehem, what
sublime and glorious events occurred?
Luke 2:6-16; Matt. 1:25.
[36]
NOTE.—"By His humanity, Christ touched
humanity; by His divinity, He lays hold
upon the throne of God. As the Son of
man, He gave us an example of obedience;
as the. Son of God, He gives us power to
obey. It was Christ who from the bush
on Mount Horeb spoke to Moses saying, 'I
AM THAT I AM..
' So when He
came 'in the likeness of men,' He declared
Himself the I AM. The Child of Bethle-
hem, the meek and lowly Saviour, is God
'manifest in the flesh.' 1 Timothy 3:16.
And to us He says: 'I AM the Good Shep-
herd.' I AM the living Bread.' I AM the
Way, the Truth, and the Life.' . . . 'God
with us' is the surety of our deliverance
from sin, the assurance of our power to
obey the law of heaven. . . .
"In Christ the family of earth and the
family of heaven are bound together. Christ
glorified is our brother. Heaven is en-
shrined in humanity, and humanity is en-
folded in the bosom of Infinite Love."—
The Desire of Ages,
pages 24-26.
7.
When the parents of Jesus vis-
ited the temple for the presentation
of the Christ child, what act reveals
their poverty? Luke 2:22-24.
NOTE.—"Joseph and Mary were poor;
and when they came with their Child, the
priests saw only a man and woman dressed
as Galileans, and in the humblest garments.
There was nothing in their appearance to
attract attention, and they presented only
the offering made by the poorer classes."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 52.
8.
While the family was still in the
temple, what two notable testimonies
were given concerning Jesus? Luke
2:25-38.
NOTE.—"The spirit of prophecy was
upon this man of God, and while Joseph
and Mary stood by, wondering at his
words, he blessed them. . . .
"Anna also, a prophetess, came in and
confirmed Simeon's testimony concerning
Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted
up with the glory of God, and she poured
out her heartfelt thanks that she had
been permitted to behold Christ the Lord."
—The Desire of Ages,
page 55.
9.
Following the visit of the wise
men, where were Joseph and Mary
directed to seek refuge for Jesus?
Matt. 2:13-15.
NOTE.—Of the wise man it is written:
"Beneath the lowly guise of Jesus, they
recognized the presence of Divinity. They
gave their hearts to Him as their Saviour,
and then poured out their gifts. . . .
"And through the gifts of the Magi from
a
heathen country, the Lord supplied the
means for the journey into Egypt and the
sojourn in a land of strangers."—The
De-
sire of Ages,
pages 63, 65.
10.
After the death of Herod where
did the family establish their home?
Matt. 2:19-23.
At the Passover and the
Wedding Feast
11.
When Jesus was twelve years
of age, where did He go with His
parents, and what circumstances
brought them great distress of mind?
Luke 2:41-45.
12.
When Mary found her Son,
what conversation took place? Luke
2:46-51.
NOTE.—Again the statement is made that
Mary "kept all these sayings in her heart."
"While she believed that her child was to
be Israel's Messiah, she did not compre-
hend His mission."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 82.
13.
At the marriage feast in Cana,
when the supply of wine was ex-
hausted what appeal did Mary make
to Jesus? What instruction did she
give to the servants? John 2:1-5.
f
37
]
NoTE.—"It was to honor Mary's trust,
and to strengthen the faith of His disciples,
that the first miracle was performed."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 147.
The Scripture narrative reveals that
Mary felt and shared a deep interest in
the ministry of Christ; but her name is not
again mentioned in any of the four Gospels.
Calvary and the Upper Room
14. As Christ was making His su-
preme sacrifice, who stood near the
cross, and what provision did He
make for His widowed mother? John
19:25-27.
NOTE.—"As the eyes of Jesus wandered
over the multitude about Him, one figure
arrested His attention. At the foot of the
cross stood His mother, supported by the
disciple John. She could not endure to
remain away from her Son; and John,
knowing that the end was near, had brought
her again to the cross. . . . John under-
stood Christ's words, and accepted the
trust. He at once took Mary to his home,
and from that hour cared for her ten-
derly. . . .
"The perfect example of Christ's filial
love shines forth with undimmed luster
from the mist of ages. For nearly thirty
years Jesus by His daily toil had helped
bear the burdens of the home. And now,
even in His last agony, He remembers to
provide for His sorrowing, widowed
mother."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 752.
15. On what occasion is Mary last
mentioned in Scripture? Acts 1:14.
NoTE.—In the Gospel story, the first
reference to Mary was on that notable day
of Gabriel's visit in old Nazareth; her last
appearance in Scripture is while attending
the memorable prayer meeting in the upper
room that preceded the outpouring of the
Spirit on the Day of Pentecost.
According to tradition, Mary spent her
closing years in the home of John the be-
loved in Ephesus, but this lacks valid his-
torical confirmation.
Thoughts for Meditation
"By one day's neglect they [Joseph and
Mary] lost the Saviour; but it cost them
three days of anxious search to find Him.
So with us; by idle talk, evilspeaking, or
neglect of prayer, we may in one day lose
the Saviour's presence, and it may take
many days of sorrowful search to find Him,
and regain the peace that we have lost."—
The Desire of Ages,
page 83.
SOUND LESSONS FOR THE BLIND
Free taped senior Sabbath school lessons are now available
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Tape Department, Box 3666, Lincoln, Nebraska. Inform your
blind relatives or friends immediately. This is a real opportunity
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38
Lesson 12, for September 22, 1962
Mary and Martha
MEMORY VERSE:
"But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part,
which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:42.
STUDY HELPS:
"The Desire of Ages," pages 524-533, 557-568, 788-793 (Christian
Home Library ed., pp. 507-516, 539-551, 777-781); "S.D.A. Bible Commen-
ta ry."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check
Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday:
Questions 1-3.
Monday:
Questions 4-7.
Tuesday:
Questions 8-11; begin
Check Here
reading Study Helps.
Wednesday: Questions 12-14; read
further from Study Helps.
0
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Helps.
Friday:
Review
entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Early Contacts With Mary and
Martha
1.
Demons cast out. Luke 8:1, 2.
2.
Christ visits Bethany. Luke 10:
38-40.
3.
The one thing needful. Luke
10:41, 42.
II. Sickness and Death of Lazarus
4. The sisters send for Jesus. John
11:1-3.
5 Jesus talks with Martha. John
11:20-27.
6. Jesus
talks with
Mary. John
11:32-35.
7. Believing Jews come to Mary. John
11:44, 45.
III. At the Feast of Simon the Pharisee
8. Mary's memorable act. John 12:
1-3; Matt. 26:6, 7; Mark 14:3.
9. Disapproval of Judas and others.
John 12:4-6; Matt. 26:8, 9.
10. Christ's commendation. Mark
14:6-9.
11. Simon's criticism-Jesus' reply.
Luke 7:39-47.
IV. The Resurrection Morning
12. Mary at the sepulcher. Matt. 28:1;
Mark 16:1, 2; John 20:1, 2.
13. Jesus greets Mary. John 20:11-17.
14. Mary reports the good tidings. John
20:18.
THE LESSON
Introduction
"Among the most steadfast of Christ's
disciples was Lazarus of Bethany. . . .
"At the home of Lazarus, Jesus had
often found rest. The Saviour had no home
of His own; He was dependent on the
hospitality of His friends and disciples, and
often, when weary, thirsting for human fel-
lowship, He had been glad to escape to this
peaceful household, away from the suspi-
cion and jealousy of the angry Pharisees.
Here He found a sincere welcome, and
pure, holy friendship. Here he could speak
with simplicity and perfect freedom."-The
Desire of Ages,
page 524.
[ 39 I
Early Contacts With Mary
and Martha
1.
Under what circumstances does
Mary Magdalene first appear in the
Gospel story? Luke 8:1, 2.
NoTE.—"Mary had been looked upon as
a great sinner, but Christ knew the cir-
cumstances that had shaped her life. He
might have extinguished every spark of
hope in her soul, but He did not. It was
He who had lifted her from despair and
ruin. Seven times she had heard His re-
buke of the demons that controlled her
heart and mind. She had heard His strong
cries to the Father in her behalf. . . .
"When to human eyes her case appeared
hopeless, Christ saw in Mary capabilities
for good. He saw the better traits of her
character."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 568.
Chapter 62 of
The Desire of Ages
identi-
fies Mary Magdalene with Mary of Beth-
any. When Christ first met her, it appears
that she was living for a time in northern
Palestine. See
S.D.A. Bible Commentary,
vol.
5, pp. 764, 765.
2.
On the occasion of Christ's first
visit to the home of Lazarus and his
sisters, what protest did Martha make?
Luke 10: 38-40.
NOTE.—"This was the time of Christ's
first visit to Bethany. The Saviour and
His disciples had just made the toilsome
journey on foot from Jericho. Martha was
anxious to provide for their comfort, and
in her anxiety she forgot the courtesy due
to her Guest."—The
Desire of Ages,
page
525.
3.
What was Christ's kindly reply?
Luke 10:41, 42.
Nora.—"The 'one thing' that Martha
needed was a calm, devotional spirit. . . .
There is a wide field for the Marthas, with
their zeal in active religious work. But let
them first sit with Mary at the feet of
Jesus."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 525.
Sickness and Death of Lazarus
4.
When Lazarus became ill, what
message did Martha and Mary send to
Jesus? John 11:1-3.
5.
When Christ arrived at Bethany,
what conversation took place between
Martha and her Saviour? John 11:
20-27.
6.
With what words did Mary greet
her Lord, and how did He express His
deep sympathy? John 11:32-35.
NOTE.—"Lazarus had been much beloved.
. . . 'Jesus wept.' . . .
"It was not only because of the scene be-
fore Him that Christ wept. . . . Looking
down the years to come, He saw the suf-
fering and sorrow, tears and death, that
were to be the lot of men. His heart was
pierced with the pain of the human family
of all ages and in all lands. The woes of
the sinful race were heavy upon His soul,
and the fountain of His tears was broken
up as He longed to relieve all their dis-
tress."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 533, 534.
7.
What effect did the resurrection
of Lazarus have upon many of Mary's
friends? John 11:44, 45.
NOTE.—The raising of Lazarus had a
good effect upon many of Mary's friends
who had come from Jerusalem to comfort
her. They were convinced by Jesus' miracle
and "believed on Him."
At the Feast of Simon the Pharisee
8.
Who were present at Simon's
feast, and what memorable act did
Mary perform? John 12:1-3; Matt.
26:6, 7; Mark 14:3.
[ 40
NOTE.—"In His mercy, Jesus bad par-
doned her [Mary's] sins, He had called
forth her beloved brother from the grave,
and Mary's heart was filled with gratitude.
She had heard Jesus speak of His approach-
ing death, and in her deep love and sorrow
she had longed to show Him honor. At
great personal sacrifice she had purchased
an alabaster box of 'ointment of spikenard,
very costly,' with which to anoint His
body. But now many were declaring that
He was about to be crowned king. Her
grief was turned to joy, and she was eager
to be first in honoring her Lord."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 559.
9.
How did Judas and certain oth-
ers regard this act? John 12:4-6;
Matt. 26:8, 9.
10.
With what words of approval
did Christ commend Mary? Mark 14:
6-9.
NoTE.—"As far as the gospel extended,
Mary's gift would shed its fragrance, and
hearts would be blessed through her un-
studied act. Kingdoms would rise and fall;
the names of monarchs and conquerors
would be forgotten; but this woman's deed
would be immortalized upon the pages of
sacred history. Until time should be no
more, that broken alabaster box would tell
the story of the abundant love of God for
a fallen race."—The
Desire of Ages,
page
563.
11.
What did Simon think about
Mary's deed, and what was the Mas-
ter's reply to his unspoken criticism?
Luke 7:39-47.
NorE.—Simon the leper, who had also
been guilty of grave sins, had been healed
by Jesus. See
The Desire of Ages,
page
566.
"Simon felt himself more righteous than
Mary, and Jesus desired him to see how
great his guilt really was. He would show
him that his sin was greater than hers, as
much greater as a debt of five hundred
pence exceeds a debt of fifty pence.
"Simon now began to see himself in a
new light. He saw how Mary was regarded
by One who was more than a prophet. He
saw that with keen prophetic eye Christ
read her heart of love and devotion. Shame
seized upon him, and he realized that he
was in the presence of One superior to
himself."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 567.
The Resurrection Morning
12.
Early on the first day of the
week following the crucifixion, who
came to Christ's sepulcher, and what
did Mary do? Matt. 28:1; Mark 16:1,
2; John 20: 1, 2.
NoTE.—Only six days after Mary had
anointed Jesus' feet, expecting that He
would soon be crowned king, she stood
with other women at the cross of the dy-
ing Saviour. See John 19:25. All hope was
crushed; yet they would anoint the body
of Him they supremely loved. "The women
had not all come to the tomb from the
same direction. Mary Magdalene was the
first to reach the place; and upon seeing
that the stone was removed, she hurried
away to tell the disciples."—The
Desire of
Ages,
page 788.
13.
Returning to the tomb, what
marvelous experience was granted to
Mary? John 20:11-17.
14.
After this interview with Jesus,
what did Mary do? John 20:18.
NOTE.—"When Mary Magdalene told
them she had seen the Lord, she repeated
the call to the meeting in Galilee."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 793. This was the last
recorded act in the life of Mary.
Thoughts for Meditation
Is it not most remarkable that a person
who in her early life was so great a sinner
should be the one to whom Christ first ap-
[41]
peared after His resurrection? Yet it was
just like Jesus. He can forgive the darkest
blot on a human life. He is able to save
unto the uttermost.
Mary anointed the living Christ. The
other women who prepared spices and oint-
ment after His death were too late. While
our loved ones are still with us, let us
break our alabaster boxes of love. Let us
"give them roses now."
Tape-recorded mission appeals for the Thirteenth Sabbath
projects are available for offering promotion in the Sab-
bath school. Order through your Book and Bible House.
Lesson 13, for September 29, 1962
Women of the Early Church
MEMORY VERSE:
"There was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which
by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and
almsdeeds which she did." Acts 9:36.
STUDY HELPS: "The Acts
of the Apostles," pages 70-76, 131, 132, 203, 243, 269,
270; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here
Sabbath afternoon: General Intro-
duction and survey of the
lesson.
Sunday: Questions 1-3.
Monday: Questions 4-6.
Tuesday: Questions 7-9; begin
Check Here
reading from Study Helps.
Wednesday: Questions 10-14.
Thursday: Finish reading Study
Helps.
Friday: Review entire lesson.
Lesson Outline:
Introduction
I. Piety and Dishonesty
1.
At
the prayer meeting in the upper
room. Acts 1:14.
2.
A deceptive scheme. Acts 5 : 1, 2.
3.
Swift retribution. Acts 5:3-10.
II. Christianity in Action
4.
Death of a noted welfare worker.
Acts 9:36, 37.
5.
The church sends for Peter. Acts
9:38, 39.
6.
Dorcas restored to life. Acts
9:40-42.
III. Women Who Ministered
7.
Mary, the mother of John Mark.
Acts 12:12.
8.
The conversion of Lydia. Acts
16:11-14.
9.
Entertaining the evangelists. Acts
16:15.
IV. Fellow Workers in Christ
10.
Companions of like craft. Acts
18:1-3.
11.
Journeying to Ephesus. Acts
18:18, 19.
12.
Teaching the distinguished Apollos.
Acts 18:24-26.
13.
Priscilla and husband highly com-
mended. Rom. 16:3, 4.
14.
Cited for their piety and zeal.
Rom. 16:1, 2; Phil. 4:3 ; 2 Tim. 1:5.
1
42]
THE LESSON
Introduction
With the birth of Christianity, woman-
hood was elevated to a new and hitherto
unforeseen status. On some of His evange-
listic tours Jesus was accompanied by
women workers. As a result of His con-
versation with a woman at Jacob's well a
religious awakening occurred in Samaria;
and His visits at the home in Bethany have
brought inspiration to unnumbered Marthas
and Marys.
In the New Testament church there was
Dorcas, noted for her tireless labors on
behalf of the poor; Lydia, a business-
woman who helped to establish the first
Christian church in Europe; Priscilla, a
self-supporting worker who gave spiritual
instruction to the mighty Apollos; Phebe,
who was a pillar in the church at Cen-
chrea; and others designated by Paul as
"those women who labored with me in the
gospel." The record of these zealous souls
enshrined in Holy Writ continues to ra-
diate their influence for good and to inspire
the noblest and best in Christian woman-
hood.
Piety and Dishonesty
1.
Following the ascension of
Christ, in what spiritual devotion did
certain Christian women participate?
Acts 1:14.
NOTE.—Included in this group were
doubtless the women who ministered with
Jesus, together with the wives of the dis-
ciples. Here Mary, the mother of Jesus,
is mentioned in Scripture for the last time.
It is also worthy of note that this gathering
in the "upper room" was the celebrated
prayer meeting that preceded Pentecost.
2.
In the early days of Christianity
what woman conspired with her hus-
band to attempt to deceive the church
leaders? Acts 5:1, 2.
NoTE.—"Ananias and Sapphira had made
a pledge to give to the Lord the proceeds
from the sale of certain property." Yet
"they deliberately decided to sell their
property and pretend to give all the pro-
ceeds into the general fund, but really to
keep a large share for themselves. Thus
they would secure their living from the
common store and at the same time gain
the high esteem of their brethren."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 72.
3.
As a result of their falsehood
and hypocrisy, what swift and terrible
recompense did they receive? Acts
5:
3-10.
NOTE.—"Infinite Wisdom saw that this
signal manifestation of the wrath of God
was necessary to guard the young church
from becoming demoralized. . .
"The hearts of men become hardened
through selfishness, and, like Ananias and
Sapphira, they are tempted to withhold
part of the price, while pretending to ful-
fill God's requirements. . . . They forget
that God will one day demand a strict ac-
count of how His goods have been used,
and that He will no more accept the pit-
tance they hand into the treasury than He
accepted the offering of Ananias and Sap-
phira."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
pages
73, 75.
Christianity in Action
4.
What pious woman resided at
Joppa, and how was her work inter-
rupted? Acts 9:36, 37.
NOTE.—"Tabitha" is an Aramaic name,
similar to the Hebrew. The Greek form is
"Dorcas," both names signifying "gazelle"
or "doe;" and the giving of the name in two
languages may imply that there were both
Hebrew and Greek (or Hellenic) members
in the church at Joppa.
It is believed that the church at this place
was raised up by Philip the evangelist; and
since he was one of the original seven dea-
cons of the church at Jerusalem, it would
be natural for him to make wise provision
for the poor and the widows. In that
church Dorcas may have served as a reg-
[
43
ularly chosen deaconess. Compare Acts 6:
1-5; 8:40.
"She [Dorcas] was a worthy disciple of
Jesus, and her life was filled with acts of
kindness. She knew who needed comfort-
able clothing and who needed sympathy,
and she freely ministered to the poor and
the sorrowful. Her skillful fingers were
more active than her tongue."—The
Acts of
the Apostles,
page 131.
5.
Realizing their great loss, what
did the church at Joppa do, and how
did Peter respond? Acts 9:38, 39.
Nom.—Lydda was ten miles distant from
Joppa; yet since custom required that there
should be no long delay between death and
burial, the church made urgent request for
Peter to come immediately.
"In view of the life of service that Dor-
cas had lived, it is little wonder that they
mourned, that warm teardrops fell upon
the inanimate clay."—The
Acts of the Apos-
tles,
page 132.
6.
In what miraculous way did God
honor Peter's prayer of faith? Acts
9:40-42.
NOTE.—"The brief description of Dor-
cas's restoration is extraordinarily vivid.
There is the opening of the eyes, as after
sleep; the unexpected sight of Peter, who
was probably unknown to her; and the
dramatic sitting up of one who had been
dead."—S.D.A.
Bible Commentary,
on Acts
9:40.
"Dorcas had been of great service to the
church, and God saw fit to bring her back
from the land of the enemy, that her skill
and energy might still be a blessing to
others, and also that by this manifestation
of His power the cause of Christ might be
strengthened."—The
Acts of the Apostles,
page 132.
Women Who Ministered
7.
Whose hospitable home became
a meeting place for the believers in
Jerusalem? Acts 12:12.
Nom.—Mary, the mother of John Mark,
was a sister or cousin of Barnabas. See
Col. 4:10; compare translations of K.J.V.
and R.S.V. Like Barnabas, she apparently
possessed some wealth, and her home was
large enough to serve as a rendezvous for
members of the early Christian church.
8.
During Paul's first evangelistic
effort in Europe, what devout woman
was among the first converts to Chris-
tianity? Acts 16:11-14.
Nom.—Of the group of worshipers by
the riverside Lydia appears to have been
a prominent member. The city of Thya-
tira in Asia Minor was famous for its dye
works. Lydia as a prosperous business-
woman was a distributor of the purple cloth
imported from that city. Others who may
have been charter members of the church
at Philippi are mentioned by Paul in Philip-
pians 4:2, 3.
9.
Following the baptism of Lydia
and other members of her household,
what urgent and generous invitation
did she extend? Acts 16:15.
NOTE.—There were at
least
four mem-
bers of the evangelistic group—Paul, Silas,
Timothy, and Luke. Lydia's desire to en-
tertain this entire company for an indefinite
period indicates that she must have been
'a woman of some means. It also testifies
eloquently of her love for Christ and the
gospel.
Fellow Workers in Christ
10.
Upon Paul's first visit to Cor-
nth, what congenial companions did
he find, and in what work did they
all engage? Acts 18:1-3.
11.
After a long successful gospel
effort in Corinth, where did Paul go,
and who accompanied him? Acts 18:
18, 19.
[ 44 3
NoTE.—The fact that Priscilla's name is
here mentioned before her husband's, as
also in Romans 16:3 and 2 Timothy 4:19,
doubtless indicates that she was a woman
of culture and education, and qualified in
soul-winning endeavor. These devoted,
loyal, self-supporting workers are to be
commended for their zeal for soulsaving.
Their names always appear together,
whether in tentmaking or in missionary
activity.
12.
When the distinguished Apol-
los visited Ephesus, what special priv-
ilege was accorded to Priscilla and
Aquila? Acts 18:24-26.
NOTE.—"Through their teaching he ob-
tained a clearer understanding of the Scrip-
tures and became one of the ablest advo-
cates of the Christian faith."—The
Acts of
the Apostles,
page 270.
13.
With what words of commen-
dation did Paul later express his high
appreciation for the labors of Pris-
cilla and her husband? Rom. 16:3, 4.
NOTE.—Just when these faithful workers
risked their lives for Paul is not known. It
may have been during the attack of the
Jews at Corinth, or during the uproar at
Ephesus. See Acts 18:12-16 ; 19:29-40.
14.
Among other women of the
early church, mention some who were
especially cited for their piety and
zeal. Rom. 16:1, 2; Phil. 4:3; 2 Tim.
1:5.
Thoughts for Meditation
"In the case of Ananias and Sapphira,
the sin of fraud against God was speedily
punished. . . . But though it may not be
attended by the visible manifestation of
God's displeasure, it is no less heinous in
His sight now than in the apostles' time."
—The Acts of the Apostles,
page 76.
"He who utters untruths sells his soul in
a cheap market."—Ibid.
In resurrecting an outstanding welfare
worker of New Testament times, God
placed His supreme seal of approval upon
this self-sacrificing ministry. Who can esti-
mate the number of needles set in motion
and the vast multitudes helped, because of
the worthy example of tireless, loving, dedi-
cated Dorcas!
The "unfeigned faith," without pretense
or show, that molded the lives of grand-
mother Lois and mother Eunice, was repro-
duced, under God, in the sterling character
of youthful Timothy. Fathers, mothers,
and young people, God grant to us each
that priceless gem of an unsullied faith!
Her example is still being followed today.
[
4s]
trim
is the time for
SOUL UJI11111116:
THROUGH BRIEN SHBOTH SCHOOLS
Join one of the most pleasant and most productive programs of mass
evangelism.
Everything needed for conducting Branch Sabbath
Schools is all prepared
for
you.
BIBLE
SCHOOL MANUAL
BIBLE SCHOOL
TEACHER GUIDES
HELPFUL SUGGESTIVE
PROGRAM MATERIAL
LESSON ACTIVITY BOOK
FOR THE CHILDREN
ORDER THE BRANCH SABBATH SCHOOL KIT FROM YOUR BOOK
AND BIBLE HOUSE
o
ur Conference Sabbath School
Secretary is ready to help you organize more Branch Sabbath Schools.
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING
September 29, 1962
Central European Division
The articles in the
Missions Quarterly
this quarter present some of
the tragic needs of our churches and believers in Germany. War not
only took its toll in destroyed homes and church buildings, but it also
brought much hardship and financial difficulties to our believers.
Since the war our believers have had to meet in attics, in out-of-the-
way places, and often in crowded rooms in their own homes. Such
conditions greatly hinder the advance of the message in Germany.
Very few church groups have sufficient and proper church facilities.
Many meet in cold, dark, uninviting places. May our hearts go out in
behalf of the needs of our fellow believers in this needy field. With
proper help it can easily become a strong base and, as formerly, be
able to send forth its young people to mission fields.
It is our privilege this quarter to help the leaders in that field to
build churches, and especially to build a representative church in the
city of Cologne on the Rhine River.
LESSONS FOR THE FOURTH QUARTER, 1962
Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior
Lesson Quarterly
for the fourth quarter of 1962 will be helped by the following outline in study-
ing the first lesson. The title of the lessons for the quarter is "Prayer and Vic-
torious Living." The title of the first lesson is "The Mighty Conqueror." The
memory verse is 1 John 3:8. The texts to be studied are as follows:
Ques. 1. John 8:44.
Ques. 2. Isa. 14:12-14.
Ques. 3. Rev. 12:7-9; Luke 10:18;
John 12:31.
Ques. 4. Rev. 12:9, 10.
Ques. 5. Mark 1:12, 13 ; Heb. 4:15.
Ques. 6. John 19:30.
Ques. 7. Matt. 28:5-7.
Ques. 8. 1 John 3:8; 2 Peter 3:11-13.
Ques. 9. Eph. 6:12, 13.
Ques. 10. 2 Cor. 2:11.
Ques. 11.1 Peter 5:8.
Ques. 12. Rev. 12:17.
Ques. 13. Gen. 3:15.
Ques. 14. Rev. 20:9, 10; Matt. 25:41.
[ 47 ]
wen
Bremen
s
o
,
. • s'
anover
EVANGELISTIC
CENTER
Dusseldorf
4
..../
Cologne •
i
f
k
Bonn •
V
••••
Leipzig
e
r
S
.
} Frankfurt
Darmstadt •
Main
Numbers
Stuttgart
Danube
CENTRAL EUROPEAN DIVISION
Unions
Poisnintino
of
Cedes
Gina
lAnnilorrn
S
tinttiri
EAST GERMAN UNION CONF.
18,403,800
382
16526
17,588
SOUTH GERMAN UNION CONF.
26.352,009
237
11,961
13,870
WEST GERMAN UNION CONF.
29,850,000
232
13,254
14,676
Division Totak
851
.....—
46.134
74,605,800
41,741